Sinus Lift
A specialized bone grafting procedure that creates the foundation needed for safe and successful implant placement in the upper jaw.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the back teeth. When teeth in that area are lost, the bone can shrink over time and the sinus cavity can shift downward, leaving too little bone to safely support a dental implant. A sinus lift restores that bone volume so implants have a stable foundation.
A sinus lift does not affect your ability to breathe or your sinus function. The procedure works in the space between your jawbone and the sinus membrane without disrupting the sinus cavity itself.
Sinus lift procedures are performed by experienced oral surgery specialists who take a careful, precise approach to restoring the bone you need for safe implant placement. Your provider will evaluate your bone levels and sinus structure to determine the right approach for your specific situation.
Here is what most patients can expect from the process at a glance:
When Is a Sinus Lift Recommended?
Long-term denture wear
Extended use of an upper denture that has caused gradual bone resorption over the years, reducing the height and density available to support an implant.
Bone loss after tooth extraction
Bone in the upper jaw that has shrunk over time following the loss of one or more back teeth, reducing the available height for implant placement.
Sinus cavity expansion
The sinus cavity has expanded downward into the space where the tooth roots once were, leaving insufficient bone between the jaw and the sinus floor.
Preparing for dental implants
Patients who need dental implants in the upper back jaw but do not currently have enough bone height to support safe and successful implant integration.
What To Expect
Consultation and imaging
Your provider takes X-rays or a cone beam scan to assess your bone levels and sinus anatomy and determines which sinus lift technique is most appropriate for your specific situation.
Your procedure
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in a single outpatient appointment. Your provider carefully accesses the sinus cavity, gently lifts the sinus membrane, and places bone grafting material in the space created beneath it.
Healing and integration
The grafted bone takes several months to fully integrate with the existing jaw structure before implant placement can proceed. Your provider will monitor progress at follow-up visits and confirm the site is ready before moving forward.
Recovery and Aftercare
Here is what to keep in mind in the days and weeks following your sinus lift procedure.
First few days
Rest and swelling
Some swelling around the cheek and upper jaw area in the first 24 to 48 hours is normal. Keep your head elevated, apply ice as directed, and avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully while the sinus membrane begins to heal.
As directed
Medications and oral care
Take any prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers as directed to prevent infection and manage discomfort. Use any recommended nasal spray or rinse to keep the sinus cavity clear, and avoid brushing over the surgical site until your provider clears you.
Ongoing
Follow-up and monitoring
Your provider will schedule follow-up visits to confirm the bone graft material is integrating properly with the sinus floor. Full healing typically takes several months before implant placement can move forward.
Other Surgical Perio Procedures
Gingivectomy
Surgical removal of excess or diseased gum tissue to eliminate deep pockets and restore a healthier gum line.
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Guided Tissue Regeneration
A procedure using a specialized membrane to encourage the regrowth of bone and gum tissue destroyed by advanced gum disease.
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Gum Grafting
Restores receded gum tissue by covering exposed root surfaces to reduce sensitivity and prevent further recession.
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Periodontal Plastic Surgery
Reshapes the gum line to improve appearance and correct issues such as a gummy smile or uneven gum levels.
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Ridge Augmentation
Rebuilds the natural contour of the jaw ridge after tooth loss to create a proper foundation for implants or restorations.
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Ridge Preservation
Performed after extraction to prevent bone loss in the socket and preserve the jaw ridge for future treatment.
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Bone Grafting
Restores lost bone volume in the jaw to create a stable foundation for implants or support surrounding teeth and tissue.
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