Assessing the Divergence of Maxillary Molar Roots and Maxillary Sinus Floor Position in North Maharashtra population: An Observational CBCT based Study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between maxillary molar root divergence and the position of the maxillary sinus floor in the North Maharashtra population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Study design: 34 CBCT scans of patients aged 20–60 years were analyzed. The vertical relationship between maxillary molar roots and the sinus floor was classified using Kwak’s classification (Types I–V). Root divergence angles (mesiobuccal-distobuccal, mesiobuccal-palatal, and distobuccal-palatal) were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: The most common sinus floor positions were Type IV (26.5%, palatal root protrusion) and Type V (23.5%, both buccal and palatal root protrusion). A significant association was found between root divergence and sinus floor type (χ² = 12.094, *p* = 0.028). A weak negative correlation (Pearson’s *r* = -0.359, *p* = 0.037) suggested that greater root divergence was associated with specific sinus floor configurations. Conclusion: The study highlights the high prevalence of maxillary molar root protrusion into the sinus, emphasizing the need for CBCT-based assessment in treatment planning for dental implants, extractions, and sinus augmentation procedures to minimize complications.

Keywords: Maxillary sinus floor, maxillary molar roots, root divergence angle, sinus proximity, Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), Kwak’s classification