Sinus augmentation, also known as a sinus lift, is a procedure that involves lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone grafting material to the upper jaw. This procedure is necessary when there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants, particularly in the area of the molars and premolars.
The sinus lift procedure is typically required when the sinuses are located too close to the jaw or when bone loss has occurred due to missing teeth. Dr. Campbell and Dr. Rafetto are skilled in performing this surgery, which provides the additional bone needed for successful dental implant placement. By adding bone material to the sinus floor, sinus augmentation helps create a more stable environment for implants, improving both their functionality and longevity. It will also support improved long-term oral health.
The sinus augmentation procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, though sedation options are available to ensure patient comfort. We offer IV sedation in addition to oral conscious and Nitrous Oxide options. Once the graft material is placed, the sinus membrane is carefully repositioned, and the area is allowed to heal. After several months, the bone graft integrates with the natural bone, making it possible to place dental implants with a high success rate.
Why Do You Need Sinus Augmentation?
When you lose a tooth in the upper jaw, especially in the back region, the bone beneath the missing tooth can begin to resorb (shrink or deteriorate) over time. This is due to the absence of the tooth root, which naturally stimulates the bone when you chew or bite. In the case of upper molars and premolars, the loss of bone is compounded by the proximity of the maxillary sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located just above the upper jaw.
As the bone recedes, the sinus cavity can expand, leaving even less bone to support a dental implant. A lack of sufficient bone makes it difficult to place implants in the upper jaw, especially in the back of the mouth, where the sinuses are most prominent.
A sinus lift procedure is designed to address this issue by creating space in the sinus cavity and filling it with bone graft material. This bone graft material encourages new bone growth, providing a stable foundation for dental implants. Essentially, sinus augmentation rebuilds the jawbone, creating the ideal conditions for implant placement and helping you regain your ability to chew and smile with confidence.
Who Is a Candidate for Sinus Augmentation?
Not everyone needs sinus augmentation. Generally, this procedure is recommended for patients who have lost bone in the upper jaw, particularly in the areas where the molars and premolars are located. Some of the common reasons for needing sinus augmentation include:
- Bone Loss Due to Tooth Loss: When teeth in the upper jaw are lost and not replaced quickly, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate. This is especially common in the back of the mouth, where the maxillary sinuses are located.
- Periodontal Disease: Severe gum disease can lead to bone loss in the upper jaw, making it difficult to place implants without additional support.
- Failed Dental Implants: If you previously had a dental implant fail in the upper jaw due to insufficient bone, a sinus lift can help rebuild the bone structure and make a second implant attempt successful.
- Age-Related Bone Loss: As we age, natural bone density can decrease, especially if teeth have been missing for many years. Sinus augmentation may be needed to restore sufficient bone mass to support implants.
- Anatomical Considerations: Due to anatomical variations, some people may have naturally thin bone tissue in the upper jaw. A sinus lift can help build up this bone for proper implant placement.
If you’re considering dental implants but have been told you don’t have enough bone in the upper jaw, sinus augmentation may be an ideal solution.
The Sinus Augmentation Procedure
Sinus augmentation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, although sedation options are available for patients who prefer to be more relaxed during the treatment. The procedure is usually done in a single visit, though it may take multiple stages depending on the extent of bone loss and the complexity of your case.
Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
Step 1: Preparation
Before the procedure, your oral surgeon will take detailed X-rays or 3D scans of your upper jaw to assess the level of bone loss and determine the ideal location for the sinus augmentation. This imaging helps the surgeon plan the surgery accurately and assess the health of your sinuses.
Step 2: Accessing the Sinus Cavity
The surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue above the molar or premolar area of the upper jaw. Through this incision, the surgeon carefully creates a small window in the bone that leads to the sinus cavity. In some cases, the surgeon may use specialized instruments to gently lift the sinus membrane, creating the space needed for the bone graft.
Step 3: Grafting Material
Once the sinus membrane is lifted, the surgeon fills the newly created space with bone graft material. The material may come from several sources: autograft bone (bone taken from your own body), allograft bone (donor bone), or synthetic bone material. The graft material is chosen based on your individual needs and the surgeon’s preference.
The goal of the bone graft is to stimulate new bone growth in the sinus cavity. Over time, the graft material fuses with the existing bone, creating a stable foundation for dental implants.
Step 4: Closing the Incision
Once the graft material is placed, the incision is closed with sutures. The gum tissue is carefully stitched back into place, and the area is allowed to heal. In some cases, a barrier membrane is placed to protect the graft during the healing process.
The entire procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
What to Expect After Sinus Augmentation
The recovery period after sinus augmentation is generally manageable, though there are a few important things to keep in mind. The healing process can vary depending on the individual, but minor swelling and mild discomfort around the surgical site are common in the first few days after surgery. Some bruising may also occur. We may prescribe pain medications or over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage discomfort.
For the first few days following the surgery, you will need to follow a soft-food diet and avoid chewing directly on the treated area. This allows the surgical site to heal properly and prevents the graft from shifting or becoming disturbed. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to preventing infection and promoting healing. Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to clean your mouth without disturbing the surgical site. You may be asked to use a special mouthwash or rinse to help keep the area clean.
You will likely need to attend follow-up appointments with our surgeons or your general dentist to ensure that the graft is healing properly and that no complications occur. X-rays or other imaging tests may be used to monitor the progress of bone regeneration.