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Sinus Augmentation
What is a Sinus?
The maxillary sinuses are behind your cheeks and on top of the upper teeth. These sinuses are empty, air-filled spaces. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the maxillary sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, there is often just a thin wall of bone separating the maxillary sinus and the mouth. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place. When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone.
For more information about the Ridge Augmentation procedure or to schedule a consultation with Madison Avenue Periodontics, call our office in New York, New York at (212) 755-1144.
The Sinus Augmentation Procedure
The key to a successful and long-lasting dental implant is the quality and quantity of jaw bone to which the implant will be attached. If bone loss has occurred due to injury or periodontal disease, a sinus augmentation can raise the sinus floor and allow for new bone formation.
In the most common sinus augmentation procedure, a small incision is made on the premolar or molar region to expose the jaw bone. A small opening is cut into the bone, and the membrane lining the sinus is pushed upward. The underlying space is filled with bone grafting material, either from your own body or from a cadaver. Sometimes, synthetic materials that can imitate bone formation are used. After the bone is implanted, the incision is stitched up and the healing process begins. After several months of healing, the bone becomes part of the patient’s jaw and dental implants can be inserted and stabilized in this new sinus bone.
If enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant well, sinus augmentations and implant placement can sometimes be performed as a single procedure. If not enough bone is available, the sinus augmentation will have to be performed first, then the graft will have to mature for several months, depending upon the type of graft material used. Once the graft has matured, the implants can be placed.
The sinus graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option besides wearing loose dentures.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a sinus augmentation?
A sinus augmentation, also known as a sinus lift, is a procedure designed to add bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. This treatment helps create the necessary bone support for successful dental implant placement in areas where bone volume may be limited.
Why is sinus augmentation sometimes needed?
Following tooth loss, the upper jawbone can naturally shrink over time, and the sinus cavity may expand into the space where bone once existed. When there is not enough healthy bone to securely support dental implants, a sinus augmentation helps rebuild the area and create a stable foundation for long-term implant success.
How is sinus lift surgery performed?
During the procedure, your periodontist carefully lifts the sinus membrane and places bone grafting material beneath it to increase bone height in the upper jaw. Over time, the graft integrates with your natural bone to strengthen the area for future implant placement.
Is sinus augmentation safe?
Yes. Sinus augmentation is a common and highly predictable procedure when performed by an experienced periodontist. Most patients experience a smooth recovery with only mild discomfort or swelling following treatment.
How long after a sinus lift can dental implants be placed?
Healing times vary depending on the amount of grafting needed and how quickly the new bone develops. In many cases, dental implants can be placed approximately 4–9 months after the sinus augmentation procedure once the area has fully healed and stabilized.
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