Sinus Lift

Sinus Lift Surgery: Creating Space for Dental Implants in the Upper Jaw

Why You Might Need a Sinus Lift

If you're missing upper back teeth and considering dental implants, your dentist may recommend a sinus lift (also called sinus augmentation). This common procedure makes room for implants when your natural bone height is insufficient because:

  • The maxillary sinuses (air spaces above your upper back teeth) have expanded over time

  • Natural bone loss has occurred after tooth extraction

  • Your existing bone is too thin to securely hold an implant

Two Types of Sinus Lift Procedures

1. Lateral Window Sinus Lift (Traditional Approach)

  • Used when significant bone height is needed (4mm or less of existing bone)

  • Creates a small opening in the side of the sinus to place grafting material

  • Requires 4-9 months of healing before implant placement

2. Crestal Approach (Minimally Invasive)

  • Used when moderate bone addition is needed (5-7mm of existing bone)

  • Accessed through the implant site using special osteotome instruments

  • Often allows for immediate or early implant placement

  • Shorter recovery time (3-6 months)

What to Expect During the Procedure

  1. Preparation:

    • CT scan to evaluate sinus anatomy

    • Possible pre-operative antibiotics

    • Local anesthesia with sedation options

  2. The Process:

    • Gentle elevation of sinus membrane

    • Placement of bone graft material

    • Possible simultaneous implant placement (in some cases)

    • Stitches to close the area

  3. Graft Materials Used:

    • Synthetic bone substitutes (most common)

    • Processed donor bone

    • Occasionally your own bone

Recovery and Aftercare

First 24-48 Hours:

  • Some swelling and minor discomfort

  • Possible slight bleeding from nose

  • Avoid blowing your nose forcefully

  • Sleep with head elevated

First 2 Weeks:

  • Soft food diet recommended

  • No strenuous activity

  • Special mouth rinses to keep area clean

  • Possible temporary sinus congestion

Long-Term Healing:

  • Most patients report minimal discomfort after first week

  • Graft typically matures in 4-9 months

  • Follow-up imaging to check bone growth

  • Final implants placed once graft has integrated

Why This Procedure Matters

A successful sinus lift:
✔ Creates necessary bone support for implants
✔ Prevents implant failure in the upper jaw
✔ Maintains proper facial structure
✔ Enables restoration of chewing function
✔ Provides long-term stability for your new teeth

Most patients find the procedure very manageable, especially when performed by an experienced oral surgeon. While it requires patience during the healing period, the results provide a solid foundation for implants that can last a lifetime.

https://www.canarydentalsurrey.com/album/2/1