A sinus lift is a specialized procedure that some patients need before getting dental implants. It increases the amount of bone in the rear of the upper jaw, creating a sturdy foundation for implant posts that act as new tooth roots. Not all patients need a sinus lift prior to implant placement, but will you? How does the procedure actually work? Read on to find answers to these questions and more.
Sinus Lift Basics
For dental implants to succeed, they must bond firmly to the jawbone through a natural process called osseointegration, in which the bone grows and bonds directly to the surface of the dental implant. The osseointegration process provides the implant with the necessary stability and strength to function like a natural tooth.
Some patients who are missing upper back teeth lack sufficient bone height to support an implant. Bone loss in this area can occur for a variety of reasons, including long-term tooth loss, infection, trauma, or naturally thin bone.
A sinus lift adds bone height in this part of the jaw by gently elevating the sinus membrane and creating space where new bone can solidify. Bone grafting material, enriched with growth factors, is then placed to fill the void and promote new bone growth.
How a Sinus Lift Works
The first step is a consultation with a board-certified oral surgeon. They’ll take detailed images to evaluate your anatomy and bone density to determine if a sinus lift is necessary.
The procedure itself involves a few basic steps and may vary depending on your specific treatment needs:
- After the area has been numbed and any sedation has taken effect, your oral surgeon will make an incision in the gums to access the underlying bone.
- A small opening or “window” will be created in the bone.
- Through this opening, the surgeon will gently “lift” the sinus membrane and place grafting material into the newly created space.
- The area is then sutured so healing can begin.
In some cases, dental implants can be placed during the same appointment. In other situations, healing is allowed to occur first so the new bone can fully develop, which may take several months.
Will You Need a Sinus Lift?
If you were previously told you are not a candidate for dental implants, a sinus lift may be the solution for you. Whether you will need a sinus lift depends entirely on the amount of bone and your unique anatomy, which can only be determined through a thorough examination with your oral surgeon.
About the Practice
At Conestoga Oral Surgery, our experienced oral surgeons have cared for the Lancaster community for more than 40 years. Our team has placed thousands of dental implants and completed many bone graft procedures, including sinus lifts, helping patients restore their strong, confident smiles.
Ready to address your tooth loss? To schedule a consultation and review your options, click here or call (717) 219-4460.