Sinus Lift: Preparing Your Jaw for Dental Implants
What is it?
A sinus lift, sinus lift dental procedure or sinus augmentation, is when bone is added to the area above your molars and premolars to increase the amount of upper jaw bone, thereby serving as an appropriate foundation for dental implants.
In order to proceed with dental implants, a sinus lift in Newmarket, ON, is likely required for patients who have missing teeth in the upper back jaw bone region, who have significant jaw bone loss, and/or who have a sinus too close to the base of the upper jaw bone.
How is sinus lifting procedure done?
- First, an incision is made in the gums of the upper back jaw bone region and the gum tissue is reflected to expose the underlying bone.
- Next, a tiny opening in the bone is created, and bone graft material is added to the area, essentially “lifting” the sinus.
- Lastly, the gum tissue is sutured back together.
- After 7-10 days of your sinus lifting procedure, you will come back into the office to assess the area and remove the stitches if they have not dissolved.
- To proceed with dental implant placement, a waiting period of approximately four to nine months is necessary to allow the bone graft material to integrate into the upper jaw bone.
To schedule a consultation for a sinus lift dental procedure, contact Oasispark Dental today!
Sinus Lift FAQ
How painful is a sinus lift?
What is the downside of a sinus lift?
- Complexity: Sinus lift surgery is a complex procedure that requires specialized training and experience to perform successfully.
- Risk of complications: Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, sinus perforation, or damage to surrounding structures.
- Extended healing time: The healing process after a sinus lift can take several months, during which you may need to avoid certain activities and follow specific post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing.
- Cost: Sinus lift surgery can be more expensive than other dental procedures due to the complexity of the procedure and the materials involved. It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of a sinus lift with your Newmarket dentist to determine if it’s the right option for your dental needs.
Why does someone need a sinus lift?
A sinus lift procedure in Newmarket is typically recommended for patients who have insufficient bone height in the upper jaw to support dental implants. This often occurs when the natural bone has deteriorated or resorbed over time due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other factors. By lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material in the space created, a sinus lift can increase the height and density of the bone, providing a stable foundation for dental implants. Patients who require dental implants in the posterior upper jaw may benefit from a sinus lift to ensure long-term implant success.
Will a sinus lift change my face?
A sinus lift procedure in Newmarket is primarily focused on augmenting the bone in the posterior upper jaw to support dental implants and typically does not significantly change the appearance of your face. However, some swelling and minor changes in facial contours may occur immediately after the surgery, but these are usually temporary and resolve as the swelling subsides. In some cases, the added bone volume from a sinus lift may provide subtle support to the cheeks and improve facial aesthetics, but any noticeable changes are generally minimal and limited to the immediate post-operative period.
How long does a sinus lift take to heal?
The healing time after a sinus lift procedure in Newmarket can vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of the surgery, your body’s healing response, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions. In general, most patients can expect a healing period of several months before dental implants can be placed. During this time, the bone graft material integrates with the existing bone, gradually increasing in strength and density. Your Newmarket dentist will provide specific guidelines for post-operative care, including dietary restrictions, oral hygiene practices, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.