Sinus Lift

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw, specifically in the area of the molars and premolars. This technique is often necessary for patients who wish to receive dental implants but lack sufficient bone height due to the proximity of the sinus cavity.

Dental implants require a stable foundation of bone to ensure their long-term success. In cases where the upper jaw has insufficient bone density or volume, a sinus lift is performed to create the necessary support. Lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material prepares the area for successful implant placement.

The maxillary sinuses are air-filled cavities located above the upper jaw. When teeth in the upper jaw are lost, the bone in this area may shrink due to resorption. The sinus cavity can also expand (or drop), further reducing available bone. A sinus lift addresses these challenges by restoring bone height and creating a strong foundation for dental implants.

Expanding Bone Volume

A sinus lift increases the amount of bone available in the upper jaw, providing the necessary structure to support dental implants. This ensures that the implants are securely anchored and able to function effectively.

Enhanced Implant Success Rates

By creating a stable and robust bone foundation, sinus lifts significantly improve the success rates of dental implant procedures. This ensures a longer-lasting and more reliable solution for replacing missing teeth.

Lateral sinus lift and Transcrestal (verticle) sinus lifts, are the two types of sinus augmentation techniques.

• Lateral sinus lift: This is the more traditional approach, often used when significant bone augmentation is required. In this procedure, a small window is created on the side of the upper jawbone to access the sinus membrane, which is gently lifted to make space for the bone graft material.

• Transcrestal sinus lift: This is a less invasive method typically used when only a minor bone height increase is needed. This technique involves accessing the sinus cavity through the site where the implant will be placed, using specialised tools to elevate the membrane and insert the graft material.

The choice of technique depends on factors such as the amount of existing bone, the desired implant position, and the overall complexity of the case. Both methods are highly effective in preparing the jaw for successful dental implant placement.

Preparation and Planning:

Before the procedure, a comprehensive consultation, including X-rays or 3D imaging, is conducted to evaluate sinus and bone structure anatomy. This helps your dentist to plan the procedure and determine which augmentation technique will be used and the type of bone graft material required.

Surgery Steps and Recovery Timeline:

• Anesthesia: The procedure begins with local (or general anesthesia if preferred) to ensure patient comfort.

• Sinus Access: An incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone, and a small window is created to access the sinus membrane. This can also be accessed via an extraction socket after removing a tooth.

• Sinus Membrane Elevation: The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed in the newly created space.

• Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and the healing begins.

Recovery typically takes several months, during which the bone graft material integrates with the natural bone. Depending on your case, the sinus lift procedure can be completed when your dental implants are placed. However, at times, it may be required before implant placement.

Your dentist will discuss this with you and determine treatment stages and timeframes upon your consultation.