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Sinus Evaluation

Your sinuses are hollow channels behind the cheek and above the upper teeth. The most common issues with the sinuses are seen with common colds and sinus infections. There is only a thin layer of bone separating the sinus and the mouth.The roots of ome teeth can extend into the sinuses. When a tooth that was extending into the sinuses is removed or lost, the thin layer of bone may not be substantial enough to replace the tooth. Often the sinuses will expand to occupy the empty space where the tooth used to be. Sinus lift surgery or a sinus elevation is performed to place additional bone in the area to prepare the space for a dental implant.

What Happens During Sinus Lift Surgery?

There are two forms of sinus lift procedures. Our periodontist will determine which is best for your individual needs.

After anesthesia is applied, our doctor will make an incision into the gum and create a small opening in the bone to access the sinus cavity where the implant is to be placed.Using a small instrument, the bone is then cut to make a moveable flap which is pressed gently upward into the sinus cavity. The Doctor will then gently lift the sinus back to its original position. Bone grafting material is then placed beneath the newly raised sinus cavity along the existing bone.This grafting material will then mesh with your bone, thus creating more bone.

After the Procedure

Usually, you will need 6-9months to heal completely from the sinus lift procedure before dental implants can be placed.The new bone grafting material will compensate for bone loss and will allow for multiple implants to be placed.Without this procedure, many patients will not qualify for dental implants.