You may be familiar with procedures such as tooth extractions and dental implants, but with so many oral and maxillofacial procedures available, it can be hard to keep track of them all. One procedure you may not have heard of is a sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation. So what is a sinus lift, and why is it necessary?
What Is Sinus Lift Surgery?
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in your upper jaw, the area near the molars and premolars. The bone is placed between the maxillary sinus cavity (the hollow area behind your cheeks) and the top of your upper jaw. To make room for the bone, the surgeon may need to lift the membrane that separates your sinus from the jawbone, hence the name ‘sinus lift.’
Hydraulic Sinus Lift
A hydraulic sinus lift is a minimally invasive procedure used when there is some bone but not quite enough to place the implant. In this procedure, the sinus floor is pushed up a few millimeters, the bone graft is added, and then the implant is placed.
The healing time for this procedure is quicker than the standard lateral wall sinus lift. The implant is placed the same day, decreasing the healing time by a few months. The standard lateral wall sinus lift takes 3-6 months to heal, then the implant is placed and requires an additional four months of healing time. The healing time for the hydrolic sinus lift and the implant is four months total.
Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery
A sinus lift can provide many benefits, including:
- Increased stability and support for dental implants placed in the upper jaw
- Improved facial contours, as more bone structure is added to the upper jaw
- Prevention of long-term bone loss in the upper jaw due to missing teeth
Reasons a Sinus Lift Is Needed
A sinus lift may be recommended when there is not enough bone available to support dental implants. Several factors may contribute to bone loss, including:
- Age-related bone loss. As we age, our bones naturally become thinner and weaker, making it difficult for dental implants to stay securely in place.
- Teeth extractions.. When a tooth is extracted, it leaves a gap in the bone, weakening the area and making implant placement difficult.
- Injury or trauma. Traumatic injuries such as tooth loss can cause significant damage to your bones, making implant placement difficult.
- Periodontal disease. Bone loss caused by periodontal disease can make placing implants in the upper jaw difficult.
Before the Procedure
We will perform an initial assessment before the procedure to ensure you are a good candidate. A complete examination of the dentition (teeth), radiographs (X-rays), and a 3D Cone Beam CT scan will be taken. We use these assessments to analyze the anatomy of your jaw and sinus area and accurately measure the height and width of existing bone for any potential complications that may occur during treatment.
Sinus Lift Procedure
A sinus lift procedure is typically done using local anesthesia, with mild sedation available for nervous or anxious patients. We use a specialized tool to gently enter the cavity created by the missing upper teeth. We then cut back the gum tissue and lift the sinus membrane upward to expand the space so it can hold additional bone graft material. This graft material is inserted into the prepared area, and over time it heals, combining with existing tissue and becoming part of the patient’s jaw.
After the Procedure
The healing time after a sinus lift can vary from patient to patient. Generally speaking, you can expect to experience sensitivity and some minor swelling in the area for up to two weeks after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used for discomfort or pain after the procedure. It is important to follow your oral surgeon’s instructions carefully and avoid any strenuous activities that could cause additional trauma to the area while it heals. Most patients can resume their normal day-to-day activities within a few days of the procedure, although it is important to note that full recovery times can take 3-6 months. After this period, dental implants can be placed.
Summary
- A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in your upper jaw, the area near the molars and premolars.
- Factors that contribute to bone loss include:
- Age-related bone loss
- Teeth extractions
- Injury or trauma
- Periodontal disease
- Most patients can resume their normal day-to-day activities within a few days of the procedure, although it is important to note that full recovery times can take 3-6 months.
- Dental implants can be placed once the bone graft has healed and fused with the bone.
Your Oral Surgeons in Deer Park IL
At Oral Facial and Implant Specialists, we take great pride in providing quality care to all of our patients. Our team of experienced oral surgeons are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. We understand the importance of restoring your confidence and will work with you to design a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. Contact us today to learn more about our sinus lift procedure and schedule an appointment at our Deer Park, IL Office.
If you are searching for a sinus lift in Deer Park or Barrington, oral surgeon Deer Park, oral surgeon near me, or dental implants Deer Park, we can help. Call us at (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form to schedule an appointment.
Call UsFrequently Asked Questions
It is important to avoid any strenuous activities that could cause additional trauma to the area for up to two weeks after the procedure. Additionally, contact sports or other high-impact exercise should be avoided until your sinus lift has had time to fully heal. Smoking and the use of straws can also cause trauma and should be avoided for some time after the procedure.
The sinus lift procedure typically takes anywhere from one to two hours depending on your individual case. Our team of experienced oral surgeons at Oral Facial and Implant Specialists will discuss the details of your procedure during your consultation.
While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing altogether, we recommend that you do your best to prevent it. Sneezing can cause trauma to the area and disrupt the healing process. If you need to sneeze, try to keep your mouth open to reduce sinus pressure.
It is recommended to avoid coffee and other hot drinks for the first few days after your procedure. Drinking hot beverages can cause increased blood flow and swelling in the area, which can disrupt the healing process. Once you have been cleared for normal activities by your oral surgeon, you should be able to enjoy coffee again as part of a balanced diet.
