Oral Surgery

Sinus Lift

Sinus Augmentations

In order for dental implants to be successful and long-lasting, it is imperative that there be adequate quality and quantity of bone necessary for the implant to integrate and achieve primary stability. Many times with age, our sinus floor descends or if there is decreased bone quantity or quality due to periodontal disease or an injury, a sinus augmentation can be performed to raise the sinus floor and allow for new bone formation.

The intended outcome of the procedure is to create a foundation of bone below the floor of the maxillary sinus for the dental implants to be placed predictably. A small window is created on the lateral aspect of the jaw bone allowing the surgeon to access the sinus floor and push the membrane the lines the floor of the sinus upward. The space is then filled with bone grafting material. The incision is closed with sutures and the healing process begins. Over the next several months of healing, the bone grafting material becomes part of the jaw and dental implants can then be placed in the newly created foundation of bone.

Talk to Us About a Sinus Lift

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE?

Typically a small incision is made on the molar or premolar region to expose the jawbone. Next, a small opening is cut into the bone allowing the surgeon to push the membrane lining and the sinus upward, and the space is then filled with bone grafting material. The incision is then closed with stitches and the healing process begins. Over the next several months of healing, the bone grafting material becomes part of the jaw and dental implants can then be placed in this new sinus bone.

In some cases, there may be enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus to allow for both the sinus lift and dental implant to be performed at the same time.

Is a Sinus Lift Right for me?

A sinus lift may be necessary if you…

  • Do not have enough bone in the area of missing tooth/teeth to facilitate placement of an implant due to the inferior position of the sinus.
  • Are missing more than one tooth in the back of your jaw.
  • are missing a significant amount of bone in the back of your jaw.
  • Are missing teeth due to a birth defect or condition.
  • Are missing most of the maxillary teeth, but require support for dental implants.