A Sinus Lift Can Help Patients Qualify for Dental Implants

It can be difficult to replace missing molars with dental implants due to bone loss or the position of the sinus floor. Fortunately, our doctors can perform a sinus lift at our Fairfax, VA, dental practice to augment the bone in this area. We use the latest techniques in this procedure, as well as the most advanced technology, to improve our patients’ candidacy for dental implants. A sinus lift can ensure a successful dental implant surgery and protect the sinus cavity from damage. 

What Is a Sinus Lift?

Similar to bone grafting, a sinus lift replenishes lost and shrunken bone after tooth loss. A sinus lift, however, is only needed when one or more of the back upper molars are missing. When the back teeth are missing and bone loss occurs, the sinus floor can begin to collapse. An implant placed without sufficient bone tissue in that area would not only fail due to inadequate support, but could also penetrate the delicate membranes of the sinus cavity.

Sinus Lift Surgery

To properly plan your treatment, our dentists will first take digital x-rays of your jaw. This will allow them to measure the amount of bone loss you have suffered and determine how much you will need. After the planning phase is complete, we can then schedule your sinus lift procedure.

During your sinus lift, we offer sedation, so you can remain comfortable and calm. To access the underlying bone and tissues, we will create incisions in the gums. The sinus membrane is detached from the remaining bone and is lifted. The newly emptied space is then filled with bone grafting material, which will allow the sinus floor to regenerate. We will then close your incisions with dissolvable stitches. 

Healing after a Sinus Lift

It is critical to allow yourself adequate time to heal after a sinus lift. Our doctors will provide you with detailed instructions to follow after your procedure. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful healing process and allow for the placement of dental implants. Typically, your stitches will dissolve within 10 days. You may experience some swelling and discomfort during this time. You should mitigate your risk of sneezing, and try not to blow your nose. This will prevent the bone graft from slipping out of place, and any loosening of the stitches.

The implant surgeons at Fairfax Dental have extensive training and experience in sinus lift procedures.

You will need to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol to ensure proper healing. You may also need to avoid certain foods. We recommend a diet of soft foods during the healing phase so the bone graft can properly integrate with your jawbone. It can take anywhere from four to six months or more for the bone graft to properly heal and integrate. Once this process is complete, we can then perform dental implant surgery.

Find Out if You Qualify for Implants

If you want to restore your molars with dental implants, you may need a sinus lift to do so. Our dentists have extensive training and experience in sinus lift procedures. We also offer the added benefit of the ability to perform the sinus lift and all other phases of dental implant surgery under one roof.