Sinus Lifts: Restoring Your Smile with Confidence

---

A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure performed by skilled oral surgeons, periodontists and general dentists with special training. Typically, a lateral or vertical sinus lift procedure is performed by an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist.  Often times, our trained dentists can perform a vertical sinus lift during the dental implant placement procedure. The sinus lift surgery procedure aims to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaws posterior region, specifically in the area of the premolars and molars. Also referred to as a "dental implant sinus lift," the surgery is commonly required before placing dental implants in cases where the natural bone is inadequate due to sinus expansion or bone loss.

What Does a Sinus Lift Cost?

The cost of sinus lift surgery depends on various factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the patient's specific needs. To determine the exact sinus lift cost, our dentists will need to assess your condition, and we also provide insurance and financing options to help make sinus lift surgery more affordable.

When is a Sinus Lift for Implants Needed?

A sinus lift for implants becomes necessary when the height of the bone in the upper jaw is insufficient to support a dental implant. This could be due to various reasons, such as:

Tooth Loss: 

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone may start to resorb or diminish over time, leaving inadequate bone structure for implant placement.

Bone Density: 

Some individuals naturally have less dense bone in their upper jaw, making implant placement challenging without additional bone support.

Sinus Expansion: 

The maxillary sinus, a cavity behind your cheekbones, can expand over time, further reducing the amount of available bone for implant placement.

The Sinus Lift Procedure

The sinus lift procedure involves the following steps:

Assessment: 

The first step involves a thorough examination, often involving X-rays or CT scans, to evaluate the bone density and the sinus's position.

Incision: 

A small incision is made in the gum tissue where the implant is planned. This exposes the underlying bone.

Site Preparation:

A space in the jaw bone is prepared to fit the dental implant.

Sinus Preparation:

Sinus instruments are used to gently elevate the floor of the sinus.

Bone Grafting: 

A bone graft material, which could be your own bone, donor bone, or synthetic bone, is placed into the space created. This graft will fuse with the existing bone over time, creating a stronger base around the dental implant.

Healing: 

Over the next several months, the bone graft integrates and becomes solid.

Recovery and Aftercare

After the sinus lift procedure, patients are typically given specific aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and successful integration of the bone graft. These instructions may include:

Oral Hygiene: 

Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and rinsing with a prescribed mouthwash.

Diet: 

Stick to a soft diet for the initial healing period to avoid putting excess pressure on the surgical site.

Medications: 

Pain relievers and antibiotics may be prescribed to manage discomfort and prevent infection.

Follow-Up: 

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring the healing progress.

Benefits of Sinus LIft Surgery

Sinus lifts offer numerous benefits, including:

Implant Placement: 

With a successful sinus lift, dental implants can be securely placed, restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.

Enhanced Appearance: 

Dental implants provide a natural look and feel, improving your facial aesthetics and self-esteem.

Improved Bone Structure: 

Sinus lifts strengthen the bone structure in the upper jaw, preventing further bone loss and maintaining facial integrity.

Conclusion

Sinus lifts have revolutionized the field of dental implantology, allowing individuals with compromised bone structure to enjoy the benefits of dental implants. If you're considering dental implants or have been advised to undergo a sinus lift, consult with an experienced dental professional who can guide you through the process and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.