Accidental Displacement of a Dental Implant into the Maxillary Sinus Managed by Caldwell–Luc Procedure: A Case Report

Displacement of dental implants into the maxillary sinus is a rare but clinically significant complication associated with implant placement in the posterior maxilla. The posterior maxillary region often presents anatomical challenges due to reduced alveolar bone height, poor bone quality, and sinus pneumatization following tooth loss. Inadequate preoperative assessment, insufficient primary implant stability, or improper surgical technique may increase the risk of implant migration into the sinus cavity. Although some displaced implants may remain asymptomatic initially, they can potentially lead to complications such as maxillary sinusitis, mucosal irritation, infection, and obstruction of the sinus ostium if left untreated. Therefore, early diagnosis and prompt surgical retrieval are essential to prevent further morbidity and restore normal sinus function. Various surgical approaches have been described for the removal of displaced implants from the maxillary sinus, including functional endoscopic sinus surgery and the Caldwell–Luc approach. The Caldwell–Luc technique remains a reliable and effective method, particularly when direct access to the sinus floor is required. This case report presents a middle-aged female patient with displacement of a dental implant into the maxillary sinus following implant placement in the posterior maxilla. The displaced implant was successfully retrieved using the Caldwell–Luc approach with favourable postoperative outcomes. This case highlights the importance of thorough preoperative planning, accurate surgical technique, and early intervention in managing implant-related complications involving the maxillary sinus.