Sinus Lifting
Sinus lifting, also known as sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, is a surgical procedure that involves adding bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. The procedure is typically performed in preparation for dental implant placement when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw due to the presence of the maxillary sinus.
The maxillary sinus is located above the upper teeth and can expand over time due to tooth loss or periodontal disease, causing a reduction in the available bone for dental implant placement. Sinus lifting involves raising the sinus floor and placing bone graft material in the area where the upper molars and premolars are located.
During the sinus lifting procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will make a small opening in the bone to access the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane is then gently lifted to create space for the bone graft material, which is packed into the space. The gum tissue is then sutured back into place and allowed to heal.
After the sinus lifting procedure, the bone graft material will gradually integrate with the existing bone tissue over a period of several months. Once the bone has fully healed, dental implants can be placed in the area with adequate support and stability.
Sinus lifting is a common procedure used to prepare the upper jaw for dental implant placement and can greatly increase the chances of implant success. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and may involve some post-operative discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and careful oral hygiene practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sinus lifting, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that involves adding bone tissue to the upper jaw near the sinuses. You might need sinus lifting if you have lost bone mass due to injury, periodontal disease, or missing teeth. Sinus lifting can help rebuild the bone structure and provide a foundation for dental implants or other restorative treatments.
The process of getting a sinus lift typically involves several steps, including a consultation with your dentist, a dental examination, and a CT scan of your mouth. During the surgery, your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue and lift the sinus membrane upward to create a space for the bone graft. The bone tissue is then placed in the space and allowed to heal for several months. After the healing period, the bone tissue should be integrated with the existing bone structure and ready for dental implant placement.
Advantages of Sinus Lifting:
- Increases the volume of bone in the upper jaw
- Allows for the placement of dental implants in areas where there is insufficient bone
- Provides a stable foundation for dental restorations
- Improves the appearance of the smile and facial structure
- Can improve overall oral health by preventing the loss of teeth
Indications for Sinus Lifting:
- Insufficient bone volume in the upper jaw to support dental implants
- Significant bone loss due to gum disease or trauma
- Congenital defects that result in a lack of bone in the upper jaw
- Previous dental extractions that have resulted in bone loss
Stages of Sinus Lifting:
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: The dentist will examine the patient’s medical and dental history, take X-rays and CT scans, and determine if a sinus lift is necessary.
- Anesthesia and incision: The patient is given anesthesia, and the dentist makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone.
- Access to sinus cavity: The dentist creates a small opening in the bone to access the sinus cavity.
- Elevate sinus membrane: The dentist carefully lifts the sinus membrane and places a bone graft material in the space between the sinus membrane and the bone.
- Closure: The dentist closes the incision with sutures and provides post-operative care instructions.
- Healing and integration: The bone graft material integrates with the natural bone over time, and the patient must wait several months for the bone to fully heal before the implant is placed.
