Odontogenic Sinusitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the sinuses. Treating the condition is very important, although diagnosing it can be problematic. However, new research, aided by artificial intelligence, has sought to improve this process by creating a model that can identify cases of odontogenic sinusitis. This model should improve treatment outcomes.
Recent research has utilized artificial intelligence (AI) to help develop a diagnostic system that can identify tooth and sinus structures in dental X-rays [1].
There was a specific focus in this research on a condition that affects the sinuses called Odontogenic Sinusitis [1]. The research will be very helpful for this condition.
Technology like this is highly sought after, as such systems aid the diagnostic process. Therefore, this research is likely to have a very positive impact.
Background
This is the latest example of how AI is impacting dentistry. AI has already been used in oral health research, with it already playing a part in modern-day dentistry.
As mentioned above, there was a specific focus in this research on odontogenic sinusitis. This is a condition that involves inflammation of the sinuses due to an infection [1].
There are numerous potential causes of odontogenic sinusitis, including dental issues. When left untreated, the infection can spread around the face and eventually, the brain. In some cases, it can be life-threatening [2].
Odontogenic sinusitis is a sub-type of sinusitis. In fact, research suggests that approximately 10% of all cases of sinus infections are classed as odontogenic [2].
Dentists are normally able to diagnose cases of odontogenic sinusitis. Alternatively, doctors that specialize in the ear, nose, and throat, called otolaryngologists, can diagnose it.
However, the symptoms can be missed, or in some cases, attributed to other conditions. Therefore, improving diagnostic rates is a key goal for scientists and dentists alike.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team of researchers from the Philippines and Taiwan. Their findings have been published in the Ateneo Laboratory for Intelligent Visual Environments [1].
The researchers noted that odontogenic sinusitis is caused by apical lesions of teeth near the maxillary sinus floor [1]. These are lesions that occur around the root of a tooth.
Therefore, the researchers wanted to be able to identify apical lesions in an accurate way, as these could diagnose cases of odontogenic sinusitis in a more effective way.
The research involved an innovative image processing technique, which complemented adaptive histogram equalization [1].
Furthermore, deep learning models were used. This allowed the model to utilize the benefits of AI, aiding its development.
This led to the creation of the YOLO model, which stands for “You Only Look Once” [1]. This is a lightweight model which provides real-time object detection [1].
The YOLO model is capable of determining when dental root apices are close to the sinus floor. When this happens, it alerts the clinician.
The model can instantly identify the proximity between tooth roots and the sinus floor when it captures the mouth [1].
Moreover, it is easy for clinicians to analyze images, as sinus locations are highlighted through image enhancement in the model [1].
To test its effectiveness, the researchers compared the YOLO model to existing models. Incredibly, the model was capable of identifying odontogenic sinusitis through dental X-rays with 96.1% accuracy [1].
In fact, this offered an improvement in diagnostic rate by 4% – representing a strong enhancement on other models [1]. This increase underlines the effectiveness of the YOLO model.
Another benefit is that the model reduces the exposure of patients to radiation, as it lessens the need for dental X-rays.
Summary
The researchers were very pleased with the results of the research. By having an accuracy rate of 96.1%, it offers a very strong diagnostic tool for odontogenic sinusitis.
The model can be used by dentists and other clinicians when attempting to identify and diagnose cases of odontogenic sinusitis. This can enable treatment to take place sooner, thereby increasing the chances of a quick recovery.
Moreover, the model can be used by other clinicians involved in the diagnosis of odontogenic sinusitis. For example, the researchers note that the model “facilitates case information sharing with otolaryngologists,” which aids “additional reference data for clinical diagnosis” [3].
Overall, the YOLO model could make a significant difference in cases of odontogenic sinusitis. Early diagnosis is important, with this model capable of improving treatment outcomes and patient wellbeing.
Thinking points…
[1] The above underlines the big role that dentists have to play in our overall health. When they examine our mouths, they aren’t just looking at our teeth and gums, instead they also look out for the signs and symptoms of a multitude of illnesses, infections, and conditions. Therefore, remember to attend dental check-ups regularly! We recommend that you visit at least once every six months. Why not book an appointment now?
[2] Cases of sinusitis can be caused by tooth infections. Therefore, if you are in any form of dental pain, you should ensure that you visit a dental clinic as a matter of urgency. Seeking treatment early is important, as dental pain will worsen over time. If you find yourself in any form of oral pain, remember to act quickly!
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Wu, P. Y., Lin, Y-J., Chang, Y-J., et al. (2025). Deep Learning-assisted Diagnostic System: Apices and Odontogenic Sinus Floor Level Analysis in Dental Panoramic Radiographs. Ateneo Laboratory for Intelligent Visual Environments. 12. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12020134.
[2] Khemani, S. (2024). Odontogenic sinusitis: Causes, diagnosis and treatment. Available: https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/odontogenic-sinusitis-causes-diagnosis-and-treatment. Last accessed: 5th April 2025.
[3] Oral Health. (2025). AI model developed by Philippine, Taiwanese researchers identifies tooth, sinus structures with 98.2% accuracy. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/clinical/dental-research/ai-model-developed-by-philippine-taiwanese-researchers-identifies-tooth-sinus-structures-with-98-2-accuracy-1003985457/.
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