Why Sinus Lift Surgery Before Dental Implants?

At 19th Street Dental in Midtown Atlanta, we’re committed to providing our patients with comprehensive dental care and the most advanced treatment options available. One important procedure that patients considering dental implants may need to learn about is sinus lift surgery. This blog post aims to shed light on what sinus lift surgery is, why it may be necessary before receiving dental implants, and how it can lead to successful and long-lasting dental restoration.

Understanding Sinus Lift Surgery

Sinus lift surgery, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure aimed at adding bone to the upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. It involves lifting the sinus membrane and inserting bone graft material, thereby increasing the amount of bone in the sinus area to support the placement of dental implants.

Why Might Sinus Lift Surgery Be Needed?

The upper jaw, particularly the area behind the cheeks and above the upper teeth, is one of the most difficult areas to place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the proximity to the sinus. Several reasons contribute to the need for a sinus lift surgery:

1. Bone Loss: After tooth loss, bone begins to resorb or shrink over time, which can result in insufficient bone to support an implant.
2. Sinus Position: In some individuals, the sinuses are naturally large or have expanded over time, leaving insufficient bone height between the jaw and the sinus.
3. Previous Extractions: Tooth loss, especially in the upper jaw, can lead to bone loss. If teeth have been missing for a long time, the bone may have resorbed to the point where a sinus lift is necessary to support an implant.
4. Anatomy: Every individual’s anatomy is different; some people may naturally have less bone in the upper jaw due to their anatomical structure.

The Sinus Lift Procedure: What to Expect

The sinus lift procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue where the back teeth used to be.
2. The tissue is raised, exposing the bone underneath.
3. A small, oval window is opened in the bone, and the membrane lining the sinus on the other side of the window is gently pushed up and away from the jaw.
4. Bone graft material is then packed into the space where the sinus was.
5. The tissue is stitched back into place, and the graft is left to heal and integrate with the bone, a process that can take several months.

The Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery

Undergoing sinus lift surgery can significantly improve the outcomes for patients needing dental implants in the upper jaw. The additional bone can provide a solid foundation for implants, leading to a more stable and long-lasting dental restoration. Additionally, sinus lift surgery can help improve facial aesthetics by supporting the natural contours of the face, preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies bone loss.

Learn More About Sinus Lift Surgery from a Trusted Midtown Dentist

If you’re considering dental implants and have been told you may need a sinus lift, the team at 19th Street Dental in Midtown Atlanta is here to guide you through the process. Our experienced dental professionals are committed to ensuring the highest standard of care, from initial consultation to post-surgery recovery. Contact us today to learn more about sinus lift surgery and how we can help restore your smile with confidence and precision.