Sinus Lift Surgery

Getting dental implants for your upper jaw can bring up questions—especially if you’ve been told you have bone loss. We are here to provide clear answers and gentle solutions. A sinus lift is a common procedure that helps create the right conditions for successful dental implants.

Why You May Need a Sinus Lift

When you lose teeth in your upper jaw, the bone in that area can begin to shrink over time. This can also happen due to periodontal disease or the natural shape of your sinuses. For a dental implant to be successful, it needs a certain amount of bone height to anchor it securely. Sinus lift surgery creates that necessary space and support, making a permanent dental implant possible.

How the Sinus Lift Procedure Works

We want you to feel at ease, so we will walk you through the entire process. The goal of a sinus lift is to add bone to your upper jaw, between your jaw and sinuses. Your oral surgeon will carefully make an incision and gently lift the sinus membrane upward. This creates space that is then filled with bone graft material. Once the procedure is complete, the healing process begins.

Bone Grafting Materials Used

The bone graft material is what helps your body build new bone. There are several safe and effective options we can use:

Autografts: Bone taken from another area of your body
Allografts: Bone from a carefully screened human donor
Xenografts: Bone from a biocompatible animal source, like a cow
Synthetics: Lab-made materials that encourage new bone growth

Healing and Recovery

Your comfort during recovery is very important to us. After your surgery, we will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure a smooth healing process. You may be advised to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully for a short time. We will also give you medication to manage any discomfort and prevent infection. The new bone will need several months to heal completely before we can place your dental implant.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, a sinus lift has potential risks, such as infection or a tear in the sinus membrane. However, these complications are rare. Our experienced surgeon uses precise techniques to make your procedure as safe as possible. We will be with you every step of the way to monitor your healing.

Alternatives to a Sinus Lift

If a sinus lift is not the right option for you, there may be other solutions. These can include using shorter or angled dental implants or considering treatments like zygomatic implants or removable dentures. We will discuss all possibilities with you during your consultation.

Are You a Candidate?

The best way to know if a sinus lift is right for you is to come in for a consultation. We use advanced 3D imaging to get a clear picture of your jawbone and sinuses. This allows us to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

Benefits of a Sinus Lift

A sinus lift offers wonderful benefits for your long-term oral health. It enables the secure, lasting placement of dental implants, which can improve your ability to eat and speak with confidence. This procedure also helps preserve your facial structure by preventing further bone loss.

Ready to explore your options for a complete smile? Schedule a consultation with our team today.

Meet

The Surgeon

Dr. Elisa Hannan, DMD, MD

Dr. Elisa Hannan is a respected oral and maxillofacial surgeon known for her advanced skill and warm, reassuring approach. She is dedicated to making every patient feel safe and supported throughout their treatment journey. Her diligent treatment planning and focus on positive outcomes make her a trusted choice for families in our community.

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