Oro-Antral Fistula (OAF) also known as Surgical Closer is a hole which can sometimes form between the mouth and the maxillary sinus, an air-filled space inside the cheekbones.
This condition can occur during or after the extraction of an upper molar, wisdom tooth, or premolar and can also happen during the retrieval of fragment root of the tooth.
Sometimes after an extraction, when the distance between the socket and the sinus is very small, strong sneezing or coughing can rupture the delicate membrane of the sinus also causing an Oro-Antral Fistula.
As a result of Oro-Antral Fistula, liquids may pass from the mouth into the sinus and exit through the nose. If left untreated, this can develop into a persistent abnormal connection which can lead to an infection known as Maxillary Sinusitis.

Treatment Process

The primary aim of this procedure is to close and cover the hole in the gum that leads into the sinus to help the tissues heal and form a permanent barrier of bone and gum, separating the mouth from the sinus. This procedure is painless and is carried out under local anaesthetic by our expert Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon.

For Larger Defects

If the defect is very large, infected or if a piece of tooth root becomes loose and moves into the sinus, the sinus may need to be explored and cleaned before the defect area is repaired using synthetic materials.
The more severe cases the procedures are typically carried out under general anaesthetic in a hospital setting.