If you have compromised or lost bone in the upper jaw, you may need a sinus lift to create a stable foundation for placing a dental implant. Also called sinus augmentation, sinus lift surgery will improve the stability of your upper jaw and the sinuses on either side of your nose. The goal of this type of oral surgery is to create more space in the upper jaw and to strengthen existing bone tissue for placing an implant. To accomplish this, we will effectively “lift” the sinus area that is in the back of the mouth above your molars and support it with new bone that is grafted. The new bone may be taken from your healthy bone in the area being treated or we may use a biocompatible product. The sinus lift is completed in a single visit and will support the best possible outcome for replacing missing teeth with a dental implant.
Sinus Lift Surgery for Upper Jaw Implants
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a specialized bone grafting procedure designed to create enough space in the upper jaw to support dental implants. If you’ve experienced bone loss in the upper jaw due to missing teeth, periodontal disease, or natural anatomy, a sinus lift may be the key to restoring your smile with secure, long-lasting dental implants.
Why You Might Need a Sinus Lift
The upper back jaw can present challenges for implant placement due to its close proximity to the sinus cavity. In cases where the bone height is insufficient, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw, a sinus lift helps create the needed bone volume for stable implant integration. This procedure is especially common for patients who have been missing upper molars or premolars for an extended time.
What to Expect from the Procedure
During a sinus lift, our expert surgical team gently elevates the sinus membrane and places a bone graft beneath it. Over time, this graft becomes part of your natural bone, creating a solid foundation for future implants. Healing typically takes several months, after which dental implants can be safely placed with greater predictability and success.