What is a Sinus Lift?
The maxillary sinuses are located behind the cheeks and above the upper teeth. These sinuses are air-filled spaces, with some of the roots of the upper teeth extending into them. When these teeth are removed, there is often only a thin wall of bone separating the sinus from the mouth. Dental implants require sufficient bone for support, making it impossible to place them in areas with a thin sinus wall.
For successful and long-lasting dental implants, the quality and quantity of jawbone are crucial. If bone loss has occurred due to injury or periodontal disease, a sinus augmentation can be performed to raise the sinus floor and promote new bone growth. This procedure, known as a sinus lift, is commonly used for patients with bone loss in the upper jaw. By growing bone in the floor of the maxillary sinus, dental implants can be securely placed in the newly formed bone.
Could I be eligible for a sinus lift procedure?
A sinus lift may be required if:
- have multiple missing teeth in the posterior region of your jaw
- lack a substantial amount of bone in the posterior region of your jaw
- have congenitally missing teeth or teeth lost due to a medical condition
- require additional support for dental implants due to extensive loss of maxillary teeth
How can this procedure be completed?
Typically, a small incision is made in the premolar or molar region to access the jawbone. A small opening is then created in the bone, and the sinus membrane is lifted. Bone grafting material, either from the patient's own body or from other sources, is used to fill the space. In some cases, synthetic materials that mimic bone formation are utilized. The incision is then closed with sutures, and the healing process begins. Over the course of several months, the bone integrates with the jaw, allowing for the placement of dental implants in the newly formed sinus bone.
If there is enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the sinus floor to support the implant, sinus augmentation and implant placement can be done in a single procedure. However, if there is insufficient bone, the sinus augmentation must be performed first. The graft will then need time to mature, typically several months depending on the type of material used, before the implants can be placed.
Sinus augmentation procedures enable many patients who were previously limited to loose dentures to receive dental implants.
Sinus augmentations are usually done in the office of Dr. Khayat under local anesthesia, with the option for oral or intravenous sedation for some patients.
