A sinus lift adds bone to the upper back jaw so a dental implant has enough support. It is a specific type of bone graft that our Ocoee, FL dentists may recommend before replacing upper molars or premolars.
Here's how a sinus lift works and who may need one.
What a Sinus Lift Does
Your maxillary sinuses sit just above the roots of your upper back teeth. When bone in that area is thin, there may not be enough height to hold an implant post securely.
A sinus lift gently raises the sinus membrane and places graft material in the space beneath it. Over time, that material helps new bone form.
The describes it as a way to build bone so implants can go into the upper back jaw.
Who May Need One
Not everyone getting an upper implant needs this step. It usually comes up when an exam and imaging show low bone height or a sinus that sits close to the jaw.
Common reasons for bone loss in this area include:
- Advanced gum disease
- Missing upper back teeth
- Natural bone shrinkage after a tooth is lost
When upper teeth are missing for a while, the bone can thin and the sinus may expand downward. If you're weighing your options, reading about who makes a good implant candidate can help you prepare questions for your visit.
How the Procedure Works
A sinus lift is usually done with local anesthesia, and sedation may be an option. The dentist opens the gum to reach the bone beneath it.
In one common approach, a small window is made in the bone and the sinus lining is lifted upward. Graft material fills the new space, and the gum is closed with sutures.
According to the , a smaller approach through the implant site may be used when only a little extra height is needed.
Healing After a Sinus Lift
Most people notice some swelling, tenderness or bruising for a few days. These effects often fade within a week or two.
Simple steps can support healing:
- Use ice packs on the outside of your jaw
- Choose soft foods for a few days
- Keep the area clean without vigorous rinsing or spitting
- Avoid smoking and alcohol while you heal
Your dentist will give instructions specific to your case, so follow those first.
How Long Before Your Implant
The graft needs time to mature into solid bone. The American Academy of Periodontology notes this often takes about 4 to 12 months, depending on the patient.
Healing time varies from person to person. If you'd like a broader look at grafting, see how bone grafting supports implant outcomes.
How It Fits Your Implant Plan
A sinus lift is one step in a larger plan. Once the bone has healed, the dental implant post is placed, followed later by the abutment and crown.
Our oral surgery services include bone grafting and implant placement. For more common questions, our dental implants FAQ covers the basics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my implant be placed during the same visit as a sinus lift?
Sometimes it can. When there is enough existing bone to hold the post steady, an implant may be placed at the same time as the graft.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons notes that implants can be placed with the sinus augmentation or as a separate procedure. Your dentist will decide based on your exam and imaging.
Will I be awake during a sinus lift?
You may be awake, but the area should be fully numb. Classic Smiles uses carefully administered local anesthesia for oral surgery so you should not feel discomfort during treatment.
Optional dental sedation is also available for patients who feel nervous. Ask about these options when you plan your procedure with our dentists.
Can Classic Smiles do the sinus lift and the implant?
Yes. Our dentists perform bone grafting, including sinus lifts, along with dental implant placement, so your care can stay under one roof.
A thorough exam comes first to confirm whether you need a sinus lift at all. From there, we can walk you through each stage of your treatment plan and expected timing.
What graft material is used in a sinus lift?
Graft material may be synthetic, animal-derived, or taken from your own body. Each option works as a framework that encourages your own bone to grow.
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the choice depends on patient preference, the amount of bone loss and the surgeon's recommendation. Your dentist can explain which option fits your case.
Does smoking affect sinus lift healing?
Smoking can make healing harder and may raise the chance that a graft does not take. Avoiding smoking and vaping while you heal is one of the most helpful things you can do.
Cleveland Clinic notes that bone graft failure is more likely among people who smoke or have certain medical conditions. Let your dentist know about any health concerns before surgery.
Talk With Our Implant Team
A sinus lift can make implants possible for patients who were told they did not have enough upper jaw bone. A short exam can show whether this step belongs in your plan.
Our dentists in Ocoee, FL are glad to talk through your options. Call Classic Smiles Dental Office today at (407) 293-3002 or request an appointment online.
