When Do You Need a Sinus Lift for Implant Treatment?
Dental implants are one of the first options people consider these days if they’ve lost a tooth. For the treatment to be successful, you must have enough jawbone to support the implant. That’s a reason why your dentist may recommend a sinus lift for implant treatment. We’ll explain in detail what a sinus lift is and when you might need one.
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What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a minor surgical procedure that is done to increase the amount of bone in your upper jaw. This helps create a more stable foundation for placing an implant, especially in the upper premolar or molar area.
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled cavities. They often lie very close to the roots of your upper back teeth. So, in case you lose a tooth in that area, you might not have enough jawbone to support an implant.
Dentists create that jawbone support by gently lifting the sinus membrane and placing a bone graft beneath. The bone graft heals and merges with your jawbone, giving the ideal bone thickness you need for a dental implant.
Who Needs a Sinus Lift for Implant Surgery?
A sinus lift is not recommended before every implant procedure. There are a few things to consider. Dentists take dental X-rays of your jawbone to tell whether you’ll require a sinus lift or not. It is beneficial if:
- You have naturally large sinus cavities.
- Your sinuses sit too close to the roots of your upper back teeth.
- There is bone loss in that area.
- You have advanced gum disease (which deteriorates the jawbone).
- You had a cyst or tumor removed from your upper jaw.
To some patients, this procedure may seem like an extra step, but it can be really beneficial for your dental implant treatment later on.
What Happens If You Don't Get a Sinus Lift?
If your dentist has suggested a sinus lift after doing a complete examination of your jawbone, you should really consider it. Skipping directly to implant surgery without this step could eventually cause implant failure.
There’s also a risk that the implant may penetrate into your sinus cavity. You may develop a chronic sinus infection as a result, or pain in your sinuses.
Is a Sinus Lift Painful?
The treatment itself doesn’t hurt. Your dentist completely numbs the area with a local anesthetic. Some patients say they feel light pressure or movement as the dentist works, but generally no pain.
The treated area will feel a little sore once the anesthesia wears off. Taking the medications prescribed by your dentist can help manage this discomfort.
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Final Words
A sinus lift is only recommended in specific cases, especially when you’re thinking about replacing a missing upper molar or premolar. Want to know whether this procedure is right for you? Consult our dental experts at ACE Dental of Taylor right away. Call us now to make an appointment.
Medically Reviewed
Aditi Gupta, D.D.S.
Dr. Aditi Gupta is a renowned family dentist, specializing in general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry at ACE Dental with 9 locations across central Texas. She has been an esteemed practitioner for over 12 years and earned her board certification from the American Board of General Dentistry as well as memberships in both the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association.