Why Do You Need a Sinus Lift Before Getting Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they offer additional benefits, like comfort, stability, and longevity. To get dental implants, some patients require preliminary treatments, like a sinus lift. Continue reading to learn more about sinus lifts and why they are sometimes necessary.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a procedure that is performed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw. It involves making an incision in the gum tissue and a hole in the upper jawbone. From here, your dentist can gently push your sinus upward before performing a bone graft. This will give your future dental implants a strong foundation to support them. Lastly, the gums are closed so that the area can heal.

Why Are Sinus Lifts Needed?

When you’ve experienced tooth loss, your jawbone is no longer being stimulated in those areas when you chew your food. Because of this, your body will begin to reabsorb the bone, so it will shrink over time. Dental implants help to prevent this because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for jawbone stimulation again. If you have already encountered bone loss from tooth loss, your jawbone may not be strong enough to support a dental implant long-term. That’s where bone grafting can help.

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing bone tissue. Since your sinus is located right above your upper jaw, it may need to be gently pushed upward for the bone graft to take place. Once the site has healed, your bone will be stronger and healthier. This gives the dental implants a much higher chance of being successful. Here are some situations where you may need a sinus lift:

• You have been missing teeth for a long time
• You have a naturally large sinus cavity
• You have a naturally thin jawbone
• A cyst or tumor has been removed from the area
• You have experienced trauma to the jawbone
• You have bone loss due to periodontitis

A sinus lift might sound like a roadblock, but sometimes it is necessary to support healthy dental implants and reduce the risk of complications. You will be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!

About the Author

Dr. David M. Weinman is an experienced dentist serving patients in the Westfield community. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Connecticut. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education and become a proud Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology. To learn more about sinus lifts or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (908) 654-7200.