The demand for sinus lift for implants has continued to increase over the last 15 years as more people request dental implant surgery. What do you know about sinus lift surgery? What happens before and after sinus lift? We’ve compiled some of the most common questions about sinus lift surgery so you can prepare for your procedure.
Sinus Lift Surgery FAQs
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift also referred to as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that helps facilitate the placement of dental implants. Those who wish to get dental implants but lack sufficient bone to support them may benefit from a sinus lift.
The procedure aims to integrate bone between your molars and premolars to improve bone density in your upper jaw. A periodontist or oral maxillofacial surgeon typically performs it.
Why Would You Need a Sinus Lift?
You may need to undergo a sinus lift surgery if your oral surgeon determines that you do not have adequate bone height in your upper jaw or if the sinuses are too close to the jaw. Why do people experience bone loss? Bone loss can happen for several reasons, such as advanced-stage gum disease, tooth loss in your upper jaw, and bone resorption following tooth loss.
What Happens Days Leading Up to Surgery?
If you are a candidate for sinus lift surgery, your oral surgeon will determine where to get the bone from. The most common sources of bone used in the surgery are the following:
- Autogenous bone – bone that is removed from your own body (can be taken from your mouth or other parts of your body)
- Allogenic bone – bone is taken from a cadaver
- Xenograft – bone is taken from a cow
Your oral surgeon will take X-rays of your mouth to examine your sinuses and jaw more closely to determine what you need.
How Is the Surgery Performed?
The following are the general steps that take place in a sinus lift surgery:
- First, your oral surgeon will make an incision along your gum tissues.
- The gum tissues are raised to expose the bone beneath.
- A tiny circle is cut in your bone.
- The small bone graft is carefully placed into the space to fill the hole.
- The incision is closed.
- And you wait until the healing process is complete.
Your oral surgeon will inspect the area approximately four to 12 months after the surgery to determine whether or not the implants are ready for placement. The time needed between surgery will depend on the amount of bone you need.
What Should You Do After a Sinus Lift?
There will be slight discomfort after the surgery, which is to be expected. Besides the discomfort, you may also experience some swelling and light bleeding. After the surgery, you will be advised not to sneeze or blow your nose.
Sneezing may cause the bone graft to loosen. Your oral surgeon may also give you a saline spray to keep your nasal area moist, prescribe medications for pain and congestion, antibiotics, and antimicrobial mouthwash.
Are You Scheduled for a Sinus Lift for Implants?
Do you have a sinus lift procedure coming up? If you have more questions that aren’t addressed here, feel free to approach anyone on our team. At Nashville Dental Implants, we strive to provide you with the best dental care services tailored to your needs. Contact us to learn more about our services.
