Tooth extraction, sinus lifts, and dental implants may sound like complicated procedures, but they are all done to protect your long-term oral health, and they can be carried out with confidence.
A sinus lift for dental implants is used when there isn’t enough bone in the upper jaw to place an implant. A “sinus lift” increases the amount of bone in that area, particularly around the sinus, the air-filled cavity in the upper jaw where bone can be lost after a tooth is lost.
Steps in a Sinus Lift for Dental Implants:
1. Initial assessment:
The dentist examines you and takes an X-ray or CT scan to check how much bone remains in the upper jaw, especially near the sinus, to see whether there is enough to support an implant.
2. The sinus lift:
- The procedure begins by opening the gum where the implant will be placed.
- The sinus membrane (the layer of tissue lining the sinus cavity) is then gently lifted to create space for bone graft material.
- Bone graft material (synthetic bone or bone from another source) is placed in the space under the lifted sinus to stimulate new bone growth.
3. Waiting for new bone to grow:
- After the sinus lift, the new bone needs around 4–6 months to grow and become strong enough to support an implant.
- During this time, you’ll attend follow-ups with your dentist and follow the aftercare instructions.
4. Placing the implant:
Once the bone is strong and ready, the implant is placed in the prepared position.
Benefits of a Sinus Lift for Dental Implants
- Increases bone volume where there isn’t enough, making it possible to place an implant
- A long-lasting treatment that lets your new tooth work like a natural one
- Reduces the risk of losing teeth in the future
Precautions and Symptoms After the Procedure
- Swelling, bruising, or mild pain during the first 2–3 days after the procedure
- In some cases, complications such as infection or damage to the sinus may occur. If you notice any problems, see your dentist immediately.
This procedure can be done when an implant is needed in an area without enough bone. A sinus lift is generally low-risk when performed by a specialist dentist, though you may have some temporary swelling or discomfort afterwards.
A sinus lift for dental implants can be done in several ways, depending on your bone condition and needs. There are usually two main methods:
1. Open Sinus Lift
- This method is used when there is significant bone loss, or not enough bone remaining where the implant will be placed.
- Steps:
- The dentist opens the gum where the implant will be placed
- A small window is made in the jawbone to reach the sinus cavity
- The sinus membrane is lifted and bone graft material is placed in the space
- The graft is left to grow and fuse with the existing bone (this takes around 4–6 months)
- Once enough new bone has formed, the implant can be placed
- Pros: A large amount of bone can be added where the existing bone isn’t enough.
- Cons: A longer wait for new bone to grow, and possible swelling and pain after the procedure.
2. Closed Sinus Lift
- This method is suitable when there is still a reasonable amount of bone and the sinus doesn’t need to be lifted much.
- Steps:
- The dentist drills directly at the implant site
- Special instruments gently push the sinus membrane up without a large incision
- Bone graft material is placed in the space
- The implant can then be placed immediately in some cases, or after the new bone has grown
- Pros: Faster recovery, as no large incision is needed
- Cons: Only suitable when there is still enough bone and the sinus is not in a difficult position to reach
Choosing a method:
The choice of sinus lift method depends on:
- The amount and thickness of the existing bone
- How long you can wait for the bone to grow
- The complexity of your case
Your dentist will carefully assess your condition before recommending the most suitable method, taking into account factors such as your bone condition, age, and needs.
For a sinus lift with dental implants, we recommend consulting a dentist or implant specialist to assess your teeth and jawbone, so you receive the right advice and the best treatment.
The Tooth Club is a comprehensive dental centre with a team of highly skilled dentists and over 15 years of experience. We specialise in dental implants for front teeth, molars, and upper molars next to the sinus, as well as all types of bone grafting, so even significant bone loss can be rebuilt with expertise. We use modern technology and equipment that meet international standards for cleanliness and safety, at prices accessible to everyone.
