Sinus Lift Surgery: Upper Jaw Bone Grafting

Dental implants in Tewksbury are a great solution for many patients with one or more missing teeth. The titanium post serves as a replacement tooth root that supports a crown, dental bridge or dentures. But, if you lack a sufficient amount of healthy jaw bone, you may not be a candidate for dental implants near you.

For patients who do not have the proper bone density, our Tewksbury, MA dentist may suggest a sinus lift to help you achieve successful dental implant surgery.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

The sinus lift procedure is a bone grafting surgery performed to add height and density to the upper jaw bone. A sufficient amount of strong, healthy bone is necessary to place implants. Without it, the titanium posts can’t fuse with bone and form that stable foundation.

Also known as sinus augmentation, the sinus lift procedure involves lifting and moving the sinus membrane to make room for the bone grafts.

When Is a Sinus Lift Necessary?

Sinus lift surgery is performed when:

• Bone loss results after tooth loss in the upper jaw
• The jawbone is too close to the maxillary sinus, making it impossible to place implants

A sinus lift will repair both of these conditions, making it possible for implants to be placed.

Good Candidates for Sinus Lift

Ideal candidates for a sinus lift want to replace one or more missing teeth with dental implants but lack sufficient bone or other problems that can’t be fixed otherwise. Patients should also be in good health overall.

Since a sinus lift will add to the time and cost of the implant procedure, patients must have realistic expectations about the entire process and what it involves.

The Sinus Lift Surgical Procedure

First, a careful incision is made along the gum line where the back teeth back molars used to be, to expose the bone. A tiny opening is created in the bone tissue to uncover the sinus membrane which is skillfully moved up. Grafting material is placed in the space below the membrane to increase the hard bone density.

How Long Before Dental Implants Treatment Can Resume?

It can take several months before healing is complete after sinus lift surgery. Time is required for the grafting material and the natural bone to fuse together fully. The implant process can only begin after the bone tissue has completely healed.

Is a Sinus Lift Right for Me?

To determine if sinus lift is the best treatment method for you, contact our Tewksbury dental office to schedule a consultation. During your dental visit, our implant dentist will perform an assessment and discuss the most ideal treatment options for your situation.

Learn More About Sinus Lift

To learn more about sinus lift surgery in Tewksbury or for more information about dental implants, please contact MGS Dental today. Our friendly and knowledgeable dental team will answer all questions and address any concerns. Book your appointment with us online today!