Sinus Lift

A sinus lift procedure is a type of oral surgery that involves adding bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars to make room for dental implants. The procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone graft material to the area.

The upper jaw bone in the area of the molars and premolars is sometimes thinner and less dense than other areas of the jaw, which can make it difficult to place dental implants securely. A sinus lift procedure can help to add bone to the area, which provides more support for the implants.

There are two main types of sinus lift procedures: the traditional method and the lateral window approach. The traditional method involves making an incision in the gum tissue and lifting the sinus membrane from the jawbone to add bone graft material. The lateral window approach involves creating a small window in the side of the jawbone to access the sinus cavity.

Sinus lift procedures are typically performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. You may experience some discomfort and swelling after the procedure, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

The recovery time for a sinus lift procedure can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. You may experience some swelling and discomfort for several days after the procedure, and it may take several months for the bone graft to fully integrate with the existing bone. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide you with more information about what to expect during your recovery.

A sinus lift procedure may be recommended for individuals who do not have enough bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants. This may be due to bone loss from periodontal disease, tooth loss, or natural anatomy. A sinus lift can also be necessary for individuals who have a very thin sinus membrane, which can be damaged during implant placement.

A sinus lift procedure typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, although the exact duration may vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure.

There are several types of bone graft materials that can be used in a sinus lift procedure, including autogenous bone (taken from your own body), allograft (taken from a donor), and synthetic materials.

It can take several months for the bone graft to fully heal and integrate with the surrounding bone. The exact duration of the healing process may vary depending on the individual and the extent of the bone graft.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with a sinus lift, including bleeding, infection, and damage to the sinus membrane or surrounding structures. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss these risks with you and help you decide if a sinus lift is the right choice for your dental implant needs.