When considering dental implants, especially for the upper jaw, you might come across the term “sinus lift.” But what exactly is a sinus lift, and why might you need one?
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. The bone is added between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are located on either side of your nose. To make room for the new bone, the sinus membrane has to be moved upward, or “lifted.”
When is a sinus lift necessary?
The primary reason for a sinus lift is to make it possible to place dental implants in the upper jaw. When teeth are lost, the bone that previously supported them begins to deteriorate over time. This bone loss can be more pronounced in the upper jaw due to the proximity of the maxillary sinuses. Additionally, some people naturally have less bone in this area, which can complicate the placement of dental implants.
A sinus lift is necessary when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw to allow for the secure placement of dental implants. By adding bone to this area, a sinus lift provides a solid foundation for implants, ensuring their stability and longevity.
What to expect from a sinus lift
Here’s what you can typically expect during a sinus lift procedure:
- Consultation and planning: Mike and your Cleveland Implant Institute care team will evaluate your oral health, review your medical history and take detailed imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess your sinuses and jawbone.
- Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation, depending on your preference and the complexity of the surgery.
- Incision: An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone.
- Sinus membrane lift: A small opening is created in the bone, and the sinus membrane is carefully lifted to create space for the bone graft.
- Bone graft placement: Bone graft material, which can be from your own body, a donor or synthetic, is placed into the space where the sinus was lifted.
- Closing the incision: The gum tissue is sutured back in place to cover the bone graft.
- Healing: Over the next several months, the grafted bone will integrate with your natural bone, creating a solid foundation for dental implants.
Benefits of a sinus lift
A sinus lift can significantly increase the success rate of dental implants in the upper jaw. By providing enough bone for secure implant placement, it allows individuals with bone loss or naturally less bone to benefit from the stability and functionality of dental implants. This procedure can restore not only your smile but also your confidence and quality of life by enabling you to eat, speak and smile comfortably.
While a sinus lift may sound complex, it is a common and well-established procedure with a high success rate. If you’re considering dental implants and think you may need a sinus lift, reach out to the Cleveland Implant Institute to learn more.