A sinus lift is a surgical dental procedure used to increase the amount of bone available in the upper jaw, particularly when preparing for dental implant treatment.
Also known as sinus augmentation, the procedure involves carefully raising the sinus membrane to create additional space between the sinus and jaw. Bone grafting material can then be placed within this area to help develop the bone volume required to support a dental implant.
At Wise Dental, your jaw structure and available bone are carefully assessed before determining whether sinus lift surgery is appropriate as part of your implant treatment plan.
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces located above the upper back teeth on either side of the nose. In some patients, there may not be enough bone between the sinus and the mouth to securely accommodate a dental implant.
A sinus lift increases the available bone in the upper jaw around the premolar and molar region. The sinus membrane is gently elevated and bone graft material is introduced beneath it, creating additional space for new bone to develop.
Once sufficient healing and bone development have occurred, the area may provide a stronger foundation for the placement of dental implants.
Not every patient undergoing dental implant treatment requires sinus augmentation. It is generally considered when there isn’t enough existing upper jawbone to safely support an implant.
A sinus lift may be recommended when:
Dental imaging allows your dentist or dental surgeon to assess the relationship between your jawbone and sinus and determine whether additional bone is required.
There are several approaches to sinus augmentation. The technique selected will depend on factors such as your existing bone height, anatomy and the amount of additional bone required.
The lateral window technique involves creating a small opening through the side of the upper jawbone to gain access to the sinus membrane.
The membrane is carefully raised before bone grafting material is positioned underneath it. This technique may be considered when a greater increase in bone volume is required.
The osteotome technique may be suitable when there is already a reasonable amount of existing bone.
Specialised dental instruments are used to carefully elevate the floor of the sinus through the implant site. Bone grafting material can then be introduced into the newly created space.
Piezoelectric surgery uses controlled ultrasonic vibrations to assist with precise bone preparation.
This technology allows the dental surgeon to work carefully around the sinus area while helping minimise unnecessary trauma to the surrounding soft tissues.
The first stage involves a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums and jaw. Digital dental imaging is used to evaluate your existing bone and the position of the sinus.
Your results are reviewed to determine whether sinus augmentation is required and which surgical technique is most appropriate for your circumstances. The type and amount of bone grafting material required can also be considered during this stage.
During surgery, the sinus membrane is carefully elevated and the selected bone graft material is placed within the newly created space. The exact surgical approach will vary according to your anatomy and individual treatment requirements.
Following the procedure, you will receive instructions explaining how to care for the surgical area while it heals. Follow-up appointments allow your dental team to monitor your recovery and assess the development of the grafted bone before progressing with further implant treatment.
The cost of sinus lift surgery can vary considerably between patients because the procedure is planned according to individual clinical requirements.
Factors that can influence the overall treatment cost include:
Following your assessment, Wise Dental can provide you with a personalised treatment plan and a clear breakdown of the expected costs before treatment proceeds.
A sinus lift can be an important preliminary procedure for patients who would like dental implants but do not currently have sufficient upper jawbone to support them.
At Wise Dental, treatment begins with a detailed assessment to determine your existing bone levels, sinus position and overall suitability for implant treatment.
If sinus augmentation is required, your dental team can explain the recommended technique, bone grafting procedure, expected recovery and subsequent stages of your dental implant treatment.
Book a consultation with Wise Dental in Sutherland Shire to find out whether a sinus lift may be required as part of your dental implant treatment.
Book a ConsultationAny surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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