What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift – which is also identified as “sinus augmentation” – is a type of surgery that is performed in order to make the placement of dental implants quick and easy.

Many individuals that require dental implants do not have enough bone-based support due to bone loss. This procedure helps to increase the amount of bone in the region of the upper jaw by adding bone to the space that is situated between the premolars and the molars.

In order to achieve success, the sinus membrane must be lifted. The professionals that perform the sinus lift procedure are periodontists and oral maxillofacial surgeons. 

When Is a Sinus Lift Needed?

If the sinuses are too close to the area of the jaw or there is not enough bone height in the area and dental implants cannot be placed due to one or both of these issues, a sinus lift is necessary. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Bone Loss? 

The most common causes of bone loss are the loss of teeth in the upper jaw region, periodontal disease, and the bone reabsorption directly into the body following the loss of a tooth. 

Where Does the Bone Come from for a Sinus Lift?

There are three types of bone that are commonly utilized in a sinus lift. Below is an outline that names these bones and where the bones come from:

  1. Allogenic – This type of bone is pulled from a cadaver. 
  2. Autogenous – This bone type comes from the body of the patient. 
  3. Xenograft – This type of bone comes from a cow. 

What Is the Process of the Sinus Lift?

The following outlines that which takes place during a sinus lift:

  1. First, the gum tissue is cut from the area and raised, which aids in exposing the underlying bone. 
  2. A small circle is then placed directly into the bone. 
  3. The bone piece is then lifted up in the cavity of the sinuses and the surgeon fills the hole with a graft of a bone. 
  4. The incision is then closed. 
  5. Healing initiates. 

When Are the Dental Implants Placed? 

Once the surgery completes, the area must have time to heal. Therefore, the dental implants are typically placed anywhere from 4 to 12 months following the sinus augmentation. During this time, the new and old bone merges together. The length of time it takes for healing will depend on just how much bone was needed during the procedure. 

Contact Us Today 

If you are in need of dental implants and have been informed that you are in need of a sinus lift, we here at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas can assist you. We will carefully evaluate your bone levels and make a determination of exactly what is needed for implant success.

It does not matter if you are an existing patient or a new patient. Simply set up an appointment for an evaluation. Once complete, we will work closely with you to determine the best time and day for the procedure. For more information, contact us now at: 316-330-4050