Creating a Foundation for Upper Jaw Implants
For patients who are missing teeth in the upper back jaw, a sinus lift is a common and highly successful procedure that makes dental implant placement possible. The maxillary sinuses are natural, air-filled spaces located behind your cheekbones and above your upper teeth. When upper teeth are lost, the bone in this area can become too thin to support an implant. A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, skillfully rebuilds this bone to create a strong and stable foundation for your future smile.
Why Might You Need a Sinus Lift?
There are two primary reasons why a patient may not have enough bone in their upper jaw for dental implants:
- Bone Loss After Tooth Extraction: After an upper molar is removed, the bone that once held it in place begins to shrink. Over time, the sinus cavity can also expand downward into this empty space, leaving insufficient bone height for an implant.
- Natural Anatomy: Some individuals simply have naturally large sinuses or a jaw structure that leaves less bone height in that area.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
The process begins with a detailed consultation, where our surgeons will use advanced 3D imaging to precisely measure your existing bone and plan the procedure. During the surgery, which is performed with your chosen method of anesthesia for complete comfort, your surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue. A small window is then opened in the bone, and the delicate membrane lining the sinus is gently lifted.
The bone grafting material is then carefully placed into the space created beneath the lifted membrane. Over the next several months, your body will use this graft as a scaffold to grow strong, new bone. This new bone will provide the solid foundation needed for the successful placement of your dental implants.
Your Comfort Options
During your consultation, we will have a thorough discussion about the best anesthesia option for your specific procedure and personal comfort level. Our goal is to ensure you feel completely at ease throughout your visit.
Expert Care for a Predictable Outcome
A sinus lift is a delicate procedure that requires the advanced training and skill of a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Pasquale Eckert and Dr. Blaise Eckert have the expertise to perform this surgery with the utmost precision and care. If you have been told you are not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss in your upper jaw, contact our Belmont office to schedule a consultation and explore your options.
Hear From Our Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the sinuses?
The maxillary sinuses are the air-filled cavities located within your cheekbones, just above your upper back teeth. They are a normal part of your facial anatomy and are lined with a thin membrane.
Is a sinus lift a major surgery?
While it is a surgical procedure, it is a very common and predictable one that is routinely performed in our office. Our surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to ensure a comfortable experience and a smooth recovery.
How long until I can get my dental implants after a sinus lift?
The bone graft placed during a sinus lift needs several months to heal and integrate with your natural bone. Typically, you will need to wait 4-9 months before your dental implants can be placed into the strong, new bone.
What is the recovery like?
You can expect some swelling and minor discomfort for a few days, which is manageable with medication and ice packs. We will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including dietary recommendations and special precautions, to ensure you heal properly.
Restore Your Smile in Belmont, MA
Belmont Oral Surgery & Dental Implants is the premier provider for restoring missing teeth in Belmont, Massachusetts. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our highly skilled team.