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(561) 705-0045
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Sinus lift

In North Palm Beach, FL

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(561) 705-0045

Detailed Procedure Guide: Sinus Lift

A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation or sinus graft, is a surgical procedure that our dentists perform to add bone to the upper jaw in the space between the jaw and the sinuses on either side of the nose. As the name implies, the sinus membrane is moved upward, or “lifted.” This procedure is performed when you don’t have enough bone in your upper jaw to support dental implants in the molar regions, typically because you have experienced bone loss due to gum disease or lost teeth.

How is a sinus lift performed?

A sinus lift is usually performed in the dentist’s office under local anesthesia. The procedure takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

During the procedure, our dentists will make an incision in the gum tissue and then access the sinus cavity. They will then use a bone graft material to add bone to the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane will be repositioned over the bone graft material. The incision will be closed with stitches.

What is the process for a sinus lift?

Before sinus lift surgery, our dentists will take x-rays and a CT scan to study your jaw and sinus cavity. Our surgeons will also need to decide where the bone used in the sinus graft will come from. Often it’s bone from your own body, but it may also come from a cadaver or cow.

As for the sinus graft procedure itself, our dentists will cut the gums to expose the bone underneath, then cut a small circle into the bone. The bone is then lifted into the sinus cavity and filled with bone graft before the incision is closed with sutures. Once the added bone has had time to mesh with your existing bone, dental implants can be placed, typically after at least four months of healing time. It is important to note that sinus lifts are some of the most delicate procedures to perform in implant dentistry.

Bone density & preoperative scans

A sinus graft is a surgical procedure that can increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw, making it possible to place dental implants. Proper diagnosis and pre-procedure planning are essential to a successful sinus graft.

Our dentists will take a detailed history, conduct an examination, and take x-rays and a CT scan. They may also use cone beam or CBCT imaging, which is a type of 3-D imaging that allows our dentists to study the anatomy of your jaw and sinuses in great detail.

The 3-D images allow our dentists to produce the best possible plan for your treatment. This includes determining the amount of bone that needs to be added, the type of bone graft material that will be used, and the best location for the implant placement.

Preoperative advice and tips

Prior to a sinus lift procedure, our dentists may prescribe specific medications or ask you to stop taking certain medications. They will also give you specific instructions about what to do and not do before the procedure.

Proper Upkeep and Issues with Recovery

If you get a sinus lift or sinus graft, it is important to follow our dentists‘ pre- and post-operative instructions precisely to maximize the chance of a successful procedure.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. The main risk is that the sinus membrane could be punctured or perforated. If this occurs, our dentists will either stitch the tear or place a patch over the tear. If repair is unsuccessful, our dentists may need to wait until the puncture or tear has time to heal before resuming with sinus grafting procedures.

In rare instances, the grafted bone does not integrate with the existing bone, which may require the procedure to be repeated. Infection is also a risk, but infections from sinus grafts are rare and easily controlled with antibiotics.

To learn more about sinus lifts and sinus grafts, please contact Bellagio Dental Implant Center today.

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(561) 705-0045

517 Northlake Blvd #3
North Palm Beach, FL 33408
(561) 783-2850

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FAQS

What is a sinus lift, and why is it necessary?

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. It is needed when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw, to support dental implants. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed to create a solid foundation for implants.

Who is a candidate for a sinus lift?

Candidates for a sinus lift are those who need dental implants in the upper jaw but lack sufficient bone height due to bone loss or proximity to the sinuses. This procedure is especially common for patients who have lost teeth in the back of the upper jaw or have experienced bone loss due to gum disease or tooth extraction. A consultation at Bellagio Dental Implant Center will determine if a sinus lift is necessary.

How long does it take to recover from a sinus lift?

The recovery time after a sinus lift varies, but most patients can expect to heal in 4 to 6 months before dental implants can be placed. During this time, the grafted bone integrates with your natural bone, creating a solid foundation. You may experience mild swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

Is the sinus lift procedure painful?

The sinus lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring that you do not feel pain during the surgery. After the procedure, it is common to experience mild discomfort, swelling, or sinus pressure, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days and can be managed with pain relievers.

How long do the results of a sinus lift last?

The results of a sinus lift are long-lasting and provide a stable foundation for dental implants. Once the bone has fully healed and integrated, the newly grafted bone can last a lifetime with proper care. Regular dental checkups at Bellagio Dental Implant Center and good oral hygiene are key to maintaining the success of the sinus lift and any subsequent dental implants.

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