The maxillary sinuses are the air-filled spaces within the skull, precisely behind the cheekbones. A sinus lift sometimes called a sinus augmentation, is a surgery that adds bone to your posterior upper jaw. To make room for the bone, the sinus membrane has to be moved upward, or “lifted,” which gives the surgery its name.
Most Common Reasons for Needing a Sinus Lift
When your dental implants can’t be placed because you don’t have enough bone height in the upper jaw, or your sinuses are too close to the jaw, you will likely need a sinus lift. There are many reasons you might have experienced bone loss that causes your need for a sinus lift, some of which include:
Bone loss from periodontal (gum) disease
Lost teeth in your upper jaw – particularly your back teeth or molars
Reabsorption of bone into the body due to tooth loss
The maxillary sinus is too close to the upper jaw
Procedure
Small Circle is Cut in Bone
The surgeon will cut the gum tissue where your back teeth used to be.
Sinus Floor is Raised
The Tissue is raised, exposing the bone underneath.
Bone Graft is Added
The surgeon will cut a small circle in the bone. The hole will be filled with bone graft material.
Incision is closed
The surgeon will close the incision with sutures, and the healing begins.
Implants
In certain cases, implants can be placed at the same time, shortening the healing process. Dr. Fokam will determine which option is best for you
What Happens After a Sinus Lift?
After the sinus lift procedure, you might have some swelling in the area where the bone was added, but most patients only experience a little discomfort. You might also experience some light bleeding from your nose or mouth in the days immediately following surgery.
