What size of opening in oroantral communication will generally heal without treatment?

An oroantral communication, which is a direct connection between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus, can occur for various reasons, often following tooth extraction. The ability of such a communication to heal spontaneously depends significantly on its size. Generally, communications less than 2mm have a higher likelihood of healing without the need for surgical intervention. This occurs because smaller openings are more likely to be sealed by the natural healing process of the surrounding tissues and the presence of blood clots or granulation tissue.

In contrast, larger communications, such as those approaching 3mm or greater, typically require treatment—whether it be suturing or other interventions—because of their increased risk for chronic complications, such as infection or prolonged sinus issues. Understanding these distinctions in size is crucial for risk assessment and management decisions in dental practice.