Sinus Augmentation
Create the bone needed to support dental implants in the upper jaw. Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Implant Center provides sinus lift procedures and advanced bone grafting for patients throughout Highlands Ranch and surrounding communities.
When Is a Sinus Lift Needed?
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, may be recommended when there is not enough bone between the upper jaw and the maxillary sinus to securely support a dental implant.
The maxillary sinuses are located above the upper back teeth. When a molar or premolar is lost, the bone in that area can gradually shrink. In some patients, the sinus may also extend farther downward as bone is lost, leaving less available bone for implant placement.
Reasons you may need sinus augmentation include:
- Bone loss after losing an upper molar or premolar
- Periodontal disease that has damaged the supporting bone
- Long-term tooth loss and bone resorption
- Naturally limited bone height beneath the sinus
- Previous injury or other bone loss in the upper jaw
Preparing the Upper Jaw for Dental Implants
During sinus augmentation, the sinus membrane is gently elevated to create space between the membrane and the existing jawbone. Bone graft material is placed in this space, where it provides a framework for new bone formation.
As the area heals, new bone develops within the grafted area. This can provide the additional height needed to securely support a dental implant.
Different types of graft material may be used during sinus augmentation. Learn more about dental bone grafting and the materials used to rebuild lost bone.
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
The technique used depends on how much existing bone is available and how much additional height is needed.
Lateral Window Technique
The lateral window technique provides access to the sinus through a small opening created in the side of the upper jawbone. The sinus membrane is carefully elevated, and bone graft material is placed beneath it.
This approach allows a larger amount of bone to be added and may be recommended when there is significant bone loss beneath the sinus.
Crestal Approach
The crestal approach accesses the sinus through the area where the dental implant will be placed. The sinus membrane is gently elevated from below, and bone graft material is added to increase the available bone height.
Because the amount of augmentation is more limited, this technique is generally used when some additional bone height is needed rather than extensive augmentation.
What to Expect During Sinus Augmentation
Sinus augmentation varies depending on the amount of existing bone and the technique used. The treatment area is numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure. Sedation may also be provided depending on your treatment plan.
The sinus membrane is carefully elevated, and bone graft material is placed beneath it to create additional bone height. The surgical area is then closed and allowed to heal.
In some cases, a dental implant can be placed at the same time as the sinus augmentation. When more bone development is needed, the graft is allowed to heal before implant placement.
Recovery After a Sinus Lift
Mild swelling, soreness, and tenderness are common during the first few days after a sinus lift and should gradually improve. You will receive detailed post-operative instructions for protecting the surgical site and avoiding pressure on the sinus as it heals.
The gum tissue typically heals much sooner than the bone underneath it. New bone formation and remodeling continue for several months as the grafted area integrates with the surrounding bone.
If the sinus lift was performed in preparation for a dental implant, Dr. Norouzinia will evaluate the site after the appropriate healing period to determine when it is ready for implant placement.
The Specialist Behind Your Care
Dr. Bahman (Mike) Norouzinia
Dr. Bahman (Mike) Norouzinia is a board-certified periodontist with advanced training in dental implants, periodontal surgery, bone grafting, and regenerative procedures. His experience in implant and regenerative treatment allows him to evaluate both the available bone and planned implant site when determining whether sinus augmentation is needed.
Schedule a Consultation
Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Implant Center provides sinus augmentation for patients who need additional upper jawbone to support dental implants.
Dr. Norouzinia will evaluate your bone structure, sinus anatomy, and planned implant site to determine whether a sinus lift is needed and which approach is appropriate for your treatment.
FAQs About Sinus Lifts
A sinus lift is generally less painful than many patients expect. The area is completely numbed during the procedure, so you should not feel pain while the graft is being placed. Afterward, mild to moderate soreness, swelling, or pressure is common for the first few days and typically improves as the area heals.
No, a sinus lift does not typically change your facial appearance. The procedure adds bone inside the upper jaw beneath the sinus and does not change the external shape or structure of the face.
During the initial healing period, you should avoid activities that create pressure within the sinus or disturb the surgical site. This typically includes blowing your nose, using a straw, smoking, and strenuous physical activity.
By two weeks, most swelling, soreness, and other initial symptoms have significantly improved. The gum tissue will continue to heal, but the bone graft underneath it is still in the early stages of healing and will require several months to mature.
Sinus membrane perforation is a possible complication, but careful surgical technique helps minimize the risk. Dr. Norouzinia carefully elevates the delicate sinus membrane and uses precise techniques to protect it throughout the procedure. If a small perforation does occur, it can often be managed during surgery so healing can continue properly
Highlands Ranch Periodontics & Implant Center provides sinus lift procedures and advanced bone grafting for patients preparing for dental implants in Highlands Ranch and surrounding communities. Treatment is provided by board-certified periodontist Dr. Mike Norouzinia.
