Supplemental Procedures for Dental Implants
At Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island, we believe in providing comprehensive information about all aspects of dental implant procedures. One such procedure is the sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, which can significantly influence the success and approach to dental implant placement.
Are you considering dental implants and want to learn more about whether you might need a sinus lift or other supplemental procedures? We encourage you to schedule a consultation with implant dentist Dr. Dean Glasser. With his extensive experience in implant dentistry, Dr. Glasser can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
Call our Melville, NY, dental office at 631-423-6767 to book your appointment today.
What is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. The maxillary sinuses, located above and behind the upper teeth, play a crucial role in this procedure. This procedure is sometimes necessary when there isn’t enough bone height in the upper jaw, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw for dental implants to be placed successfully.
When is a Sinus Lift Needed?
You may need a sinus lift if:
- You have lost teeth in your upper jaw, particularly in the back
- You have lost a significant amount of jaw bone in your upper jaw
- Your sinuses are too close to your upper jaw for implants to be placed
The Sinus Lift Procedure
While the specific details can vary, a typical sinus lift procedure involves:
- Making an incision in the gum tissue where the back teeth used to be
- Raising the tissue to expose the bone
- Creating a small opening in the bone
- Gently lifting the sinus membrane
- The sinus cavity is accessed during this step, where the sinus membrane is elevated to create space for the bone graft material.
- Placing bone graft material in the space created
- Closing the incision
A sinus lift is typically performed under local anesthesia and dental sedation.
Benefits of Sinus Lifts
The treatment enables the precise placement of dental implants in the upper jaw, addressing bone loss resulting from tooth loss or periodontal disease. By restoring the bone structure, a sinus lift significantly enhances the success rate of dental implants in the upper jaw, contributing to improved overall oral health and function.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a sinus lift typically takes 10 to 14 days, as the bone graft material needs time to mesh with your natural bone. It can take four to six months for the graft to mature. Maxillary sinus lift surgery is essential for addressing bone resorption following the loss of maxillary posterior teeth, facilitating the placement of dental implants. During this time, it’s crucial to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.
Is a Sinus Lift Right for You?
Determining whether you need a sinus lift as part of your dental implant treatment requires a thorough evaluation by an experienced implant dentist. Expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery is crucial for performing complex procedures like sinus lift surgery, ensuring reduced risks and successful outcomes. At Implant & General Dentistry of Long Island, Dr. Dean Glasser, with his extensive experience in implant dentistry, can assess your individual needs and discuss all aspects of the implant process with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a sinus lift procedure take?
A typical sinus lift procedure usually takes between one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the individual case.
Is a sinus lift painful?
While you may experience some discomfort after the procedure, the surgery itself is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you don’t feel pain during the operation. Any post-operative discomfort can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses.
How long does it take to heal from a sinus lift?
The healing process after a sinus lift typically takes several months. This allows time for the bone graft material to integrate with your natural bone, creating a solid foundation for dental implants. Your dentist will provide specific post-operative instructions and a timeline based on your case.
When can dental implants be placed after a sinus lift?
The time frame to place dental implants after a sinus lift can vary, but it typically ranges from four to six months. This allows sufficient time for the new bone to integrate properly before supporting dental implants. In some cases, implants can be placed immediately after sinus augmentation surgery. Your dentist will perform a thorough assessment of your dental health before moving forward to minimize risks and complications.
Will a sinus lift change my facial appearance?
A properly performed sinus lift should not cause any noticeable changes to your facial appearance. The procedure is focused on internal structures and is designed to enhance the foundation for dental implants without altering external features.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re considering dental implants and want to learn more about the entire process, including supplemental procedures like sinus lifts, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Glasser. With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Glasser can provide accomplished guidance on your path to a restored smile.
Contact our Melville, NY office today at 631-423-6767 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
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If you need to replace missing teeth, the only thing standing in your way is a simple phone call. Call our Melville, NY practice to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists today. Alternatively, you can fill out a contact form online and we’ll get back to you soon. It’s the first step on your journey to a new smile!