What is a Sinus Lift? Why do I Need It?

Continue reading for more information about sinus lifts that will help you understand why you have been recommended to have this treatment completed.

 What is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a dental surgery that essentially adds a layer of bone to the upper jaw between the premolars and molars. In order to place this bone, the sinus membrane must first be lifted upwards in the mouth to make room; this is where the procedure gets its name.

Why are Sinus Lifts Done?

Sinus lifts are done for a number of reasons, though most sinus lifts are done in order to ensure that there is enough healthy bone present for the placement of a dental implant. In some cases, the patient’s sinuses are too close in proximity to the jaw, which can pose issues for the proper placement of implants. Sinus lifts are also completed for the following reasons:

• Replacing bone that has been lost over time due to periodontal disease
• Replacing bone that has been lost due to the loss of teeth (reabsorption of bone)

As dental implants become increasingly more common for tooth replacement treatment, sinus lift procedures are becoming common, as well; the successful completion of a sinus lift ensures that there is an adequate level of bone in the mouth.

What to Expect During a Sinus Lift

Prior to your sinus lift procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will work with you to determine where the bone that is being placed in the mouth will come from:

• Allogenic Bone: Taken from a cadaver
• Xenograft: Usually taken from bovine (cow) bone
• Autogenous Bone: Taken from the patient’s own body

Of course, the type of bone that is used for the procedure will vary from patient to patient depending on what works best for them.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will then have a CT scan taken of your mouth; this is a three-dimensional image that will allow your dentist to examine and measure the area in which the bone will be placed.

You will then be numbed to ensure your comfort during your procedure. The dentist will make an incision in the gum and raise the tissue to expose the bone. A small circle will be cut and then lifted into the sinus cavity. The bone graft will then be placed into the hole. The dentist will then close the tissue and place sutures, completing the procedure. Your healing will be closely monitored over the next few months, and the site will be ready for the placement of implants in 4 to 6 months.

Here at Willow Glen Dental Specialists, we are proud to provide our patients with industry-leading dental care. If you are in need of a sinus lift in San Jose, CA, give us a call; our skilled team will ensure that you receive the treatment you need.