Subdural empyema is a rare but serious complication of paranasal sinusitis which 
may result in death or permanent disability in a significant proportion of 
cases. A case is presented in which displacement of a premolar root in the 
maxillary sinus led to a subdural empyema and a resultant left-sided hemiplegia. 
This case illustrates the necessity of early surgical intervention to remove 
displaced roots in the maxillary antrum in order to prevent the serious 
complications of paranasal sinusitis.