Reviewed by Dr. Kerri Font, DDS
Reading time: four minutes.
For some patients, getting dental implants in the upper jaw requires a little extra support—literally.
That’s where a sinus lift comes in.
This specialized procedure, also known as sinus augmentation, adds bone to the upper jaw, creating a solid foundation for dental implants.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top benefits of sinus lifts and how this procedure can pave the way for a confident, natural-looking smile that lasts.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is an important procedure for getting dental implants in the upper jaw if there has been bone loss from missing teeth or gum disease. This surgery adds bone to the maxillary sinus, helping to increase bone volume, improve implant success, and restore your ability to chew and smile naturally.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus augmentation or lift involves accessing the sinus cavity through a small incision in the gum tissue.
The sinus membrane is lifted, and bone graft material is added to the maxillary sinus floor. This process increases the volume and height of jaw bone available for dental implants.
This procedure is needed when there has been significant bone loss in the upper jaw.
Why Bone Loss Occurs
Bone loss in the upper jaw can occur for several reasons:
- Tooth loss: When you don’t have a tooth, the bone begins to resorb, or shrink, as it no longer has the stimulation that a tooth root provides.
- Periodontal disease: Gum disease can lead to the destruction of the supporting bone structure.
- Anatomical factors: Some individuals may have naturally thin bone or a low residual bone height that makes implant placement difficult.
The Benefits of a Sinus Lift
1. Increased Bone Volume for Implants
The primary benefit of a lift is that it allows for the placement of dental implants in areas where bone volume is insufficient. With adequate bone density, implants can be securely placed, leading to improved stability and longevity of the restoration.
2. Implant Success Rate
A well-performed lift can significantly increase the success rate of dental implants. By ensuring that the implant has sufficient support from the surrounding bone, the risk of complications and graft failure is minimized.
3. Improved Oral Functionality
Dental implants provide a permanent solution for tooth loss, restoring functionality to chew and speak properly. After a successful sinus lift and implant placement, patients can enjoy a natural-looking smile and improved chewing ability.
4. Aesthetic Improvement
Dental implants will improve your appearance, giving you a more youthful smile. This can boost your confidence and overall quality of life.
5. Restoration of Natural Bone Structure
The sinus lift procedure encourages bone growth in the area, which helps restore the natural bone structure of your jaw. This is particularly important for maintaining facial aesthetics.
FAQs about Sinus Lift
Yes, a sinus lift and sinus augmentation refer to the same surgical procedure. Both terms describe the process of adding bone graft material to the maxillary sinus area to increase bone density and volume in preparation for dental implants.
In many cases, the dental implant is placed at the same time as the sinus lift but this can vary from patient to patient. Your surgeon or periodontist will let you know what is the best course of action for you.
There is a risk of complications, including failure. Factors such as insufficient bone graft material, infection, or damage to the sinus membrane can lead to complications.
While sinus lift surgery is generally a safe procedure with a high success rate, it does come with potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of. Understanding these risks can help in making informed decisions and preparing adequately for the procedure.
Risks include infection, sinus membrane perforation and allergic reactions to graft material. These risks are greatly minimized when the surgery is performed by a qualified, skilled dental professional. Understanding these risks can help in making informed decisions and preparing adequately for the procedure.
Book a Consultation
Trust our experienced periodontists Dr. Mike Norouzinia DDS, and Dr. Kerri Font DDS to guide you through this surgical procedure, ensuring a seamless implant transition.