TMJ Treatments
What is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is often necessary when a patient wants one or more implants on the upper jaw. In some cases, the sinuses are too low-lying and an implant is unable to be placed. In order for the implants to work properly, we can surgically lift the sinuses and place bone material to help the restorations have more area to fuse with after being placed. Sinus lifts are incredibly common and the procedure is less complicated than you might think.
Why would a Sinus Lift be needed?
The reason a sinus lift might be needed is because you’re planning on having one or more implants placed in the upper jaw. If your sinuses are too low, there isn’t enough bone for these implants to bond with once they’ve been placed. Sinus lifts can help to improve the look of your smile and ensure proper, secure implant placement. Most often, patients will need a sinus lift if they’ve had extractions performed in the past.
Who is a candidate for a Sinus Lift?
To determine if you might need a sinus lift, we will perform a complete and thorough examination. We will take x-rays to help in finding if there is enough bone in the upper jaw. If it is determined that you might need a sinus lift, it is essential that it be done to prevent implants from failing. You will find that the sinus lift is easy, quick and provides you with a gorgeous smile.
What happens during a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift begins by administering a sedative into your system to make the procedure more comfortable. We will then make an incision through the upper gums and place either synthetic or bone material into the area where the bone is missing. Bone growth factor is necessary to help the area heal properly. We then suture the gums and provide you with aftercare instructions so that the area is able to heal to the best of its ability. We can then place an implant as needed once it’s healed.
If you think you might benefit from a sinus lift, call our office today so that we can get you in for a convenient consultation appointment.