What Is a Sinus Lift in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery?
Posted on 7/15/2024 by Surprise Oral & Implant Surgery
The sinuses are the air-filled spaces above the premolars and molars that connect to the nasal cavity. If you want to get dental implants in your upper jaw, your sinuses must have adequate bone to ensure optimal structural support and implant placement. A maxillofacial surgeon will assess the bone density of the sinuses to determine if they can successfully place dental implants in the upper jaw. If the maxilla sinus has significant bone loss, you may have to undergo a sinus lift procedure.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a surgical technique that aims to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw before a dental implant procedure. It creates space for bone augmentation between the upper jawbone and the sinuses before implant placement. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon may perform the procedure before or simultaneously with dental implant placement.
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
Sinus lift procedures can be internal or external. Internal sinus lift surgery is for patients with existing bone. It entails tapping the existing bone to raise it for the implant site. In contrast, external is for those without existing or adequate bone. The surgeon will add bone grafting material to the cheek side of the sinus to lift the bony membrane before placing the dental implants after full recovery of the sinus.
Recovery and Aftercare
A sinus lift can lead to complications if you do not follow aftercare and recovery guidelines. You can develop infections or experience prolonged bleeding long after treatment. Your dental implants might also fail. Rinse your mouth with salt water at least five times daily for a week to prevent germs and bacterial growth. You can use pain medications and antibiotics to alleviate discomfort. Moreover, avoid hard food until you heal.
Contact Our Practice Today
A sinus lift can ensure the proper placement of dental implants in the upper jaw. Contact our practice to book an appointment with one of our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons.
The sinuses are the air-filled spaces above the premolars and molars that connect to the nasal cavity. If you want to get dental implants in your upper jaw, your sinuses must have adequate bone to ensure optimal structural support and implant placement. A maxillofacial surgeon will assess the bone density of the sinuses to determine if they can successfully place dental implants in the upper jaw. If the maxilla sinus has significant bone loss, you may have to undergo a sinus lift procedure.