What is A Sinus Lift?

Your sinuses are located behind your cheeks and above the upper teeth. The roots of the upper teeth can naturally extend into these air-filled sinus spaces. When the upper teeth are extracted, it leaves just a thin wall separating the sinus cavity from the mouth.  

A sinus augmentation may be used to raise the sinus floor and allow new bone tissue to form. The sinus graft is a common option and can work well for patients who have experienced significant bone loss in the upper jaw. The goal of this procedure is to grow bone in the floor of the sinus cavity located above the bony ridge of the gum line, which anchors the teeth into the upper jaw. 

Dental implants require bone to hold them in place, and without it, a dental restoration may not be possible. This procedure makes it possible to securely anchor dental implants in their correct position. 

Am I a Candidate for a Sinus Lift Procedure?

Your oral surgeon will perform a medical evaluation and collect X-rays and other images to assess your need for a sinus lift. Generally, sinus lifts are recommended for patients who meet any of the following criteria: 

  • Missing one or more teeth in the back of the upper jaw 
  • Missing a significant amount of bone from the back of the upper jaw 
  • Missing teeth due to a congenital condition or birth defect 

How is a Sinus Lift Accomplished?

Sinus lifts involve a small incision on the premolar or molar region, exposing the bone below. From there, your surgeon will cut a small opening into the bone then push the sinus membrane upward. This underlying space is then filled with bone grafting material. From there, the incision is sutured so that the healing process can begin.  

Following multiple months of healing, the bone becomes part of the patient’s jaw, allowing dental implants to be inserted and stabilized. 

A sinus lift can provide new options for dental restoration to patients who would otherwise have no choice but to wear loose-fitting dentures. With the proper support in the sinus cavity, patients can choose to replace missing teeth via dental implants. 

Schedule Your Consultation

Contact Minto Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Fairhope, AL at (251) 990-5959 to schedule your consultation.