What is a sinus lift?
A sinus lift is a type of oral surgery used to add bone to your upper jaw.
Sinuses are empty spaces behind your cheeks and above the teeth in your upper jaw. If you lose the teeth in this area, due to decay or extractions, all that remains is a thin layer of bone. However, to support dental implants, your jaw needs plenty of volume.
A bone graft can assist in creating new bone, but to receive implants, you also need adequate jaw space. This can be procured by a sinus lift. By surgically lifting your sinus, Dr. Lazarof creates enough room in your upper jaw to support a bone graft. Once your mouth heals, the dental implant process can begin.
Why would I need a sinus lift?
Not everyone who loses teeth in their upper jaw needs a sinus lift. Dr. Lazarof might recommend this type of treatment if:
- You are missing one or several teeth in your upper jaw
- You are missing multiple teeth due to a genetic abnormality or disability
- You want to get dental implants
- You are missing bone at the back of your jaw
Following a comprehensive oral exam and a discussion of your goals for treatment, Dr. Lazarof develops a custom care plan to align with your needs.
How does a sinus lift work?
Dr. Lazarof performs sinus lifts onsite as an outpatient procedure. On the day of your appointment, he administers sedation dentistry to help you relax. Once the anesthesia sets in, Dr. Lazarof gently lifts the membrane upward, creating a space for the bone grafting material.
After lifting your sinus, Dr. Lazarof carefully implants the bone graft. He covers the graft in a membrane that lowers your risk of infection and sends you home with a list of recovery instructions. Most sinus lifts take 90-120 minutes.
What is recovery like following a sinus lift?
Following a sinus lift, you return home to recover while your mouth heals. In the weeks and months after your procedure, new bone tissue generates.
To ensure a quick and complication-free healing process, Dr. Lazarof sets some restrictions on daily activities, including:
- No drinking through straws
- No blowing your nose for at least four weeks
- Avoiding activities that apply pressure to the sinuses
- No rinsing or spitting
- Avoiding the wound when biting or chewing
Make sure to follow Dr. Lazarof’s instructions carefully. If you experience any side effects or have questions during the recovery process, feel free to reach out to Sargon Dental at any time.
To learn more about the benefits of a sinus lift, schedule an appointment at Sargon Dental. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a member of the administrative staff today.
