Sinus Lift in Glendale, AZ

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the amount of bone in the upper jaw, specifically in the area of your premolars and molars. It's necessary when there isn't sufficient bone height for dental implant placement, or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw. This can occur due to several reasons, including bone loss from periodontal disease, long-term tooth loss without replacement, or individual anatomical variations. During the procedure, the sinus membrane is carefully lifted, and bone graft material is placed beneath it to create a suitable foundation for future dental implants.

There are two main techniques for performing a sinus lift: the crestal approach and the lateral approach. The crestal approach involves making a small opening in the bone to access the sinus cavity and then gently lifting the sinus membrane to place the bone graft. This method is often used when a smaller amount of bone needs to be added. The lateral approach involves creating an opening in the side of the jaw to access the sinus membrane and place the graft material. This method is typically chosen when a larger volume of bone is needed. Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort.

The bone graft material used in a sinus lift can be sourced from the patient's own body (autogenous bone), from a donor (allogenic bone), from animal sources (xenograft), or can be synthetic. Autogenous bone is considered the gold standard due to its potential for faster integration and healing, but other materials are also effective and commonly used. The choice of material depends on the individual case and the preference of the surgeon.

Recovery from a sinus lift involves a period of healing that allows the bone graft material to integrate with the jawbone, a process that can take several months. Initially, you may experience swelling, bruising, and minor bleeding. Your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions, which may include medications to manage pain and prevent infection, dietary restrictions, and guidelines on oral hygiene practices. It's important to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully for the first few weeks after surgery to prevent dislodging the bone graft material.

The timing for placing dental implants after a sinus lift depends on the amount of bone added and individual healing rates. Typically, dental implants can be placed 4 to 9 months after the procedure, allowing enough time for the bone graft to integrate fully with the jawbone. However, in some cases where minimal bone grafting is needed, implants can be placed at the same time as the sinus lift.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with sinus lift surgery, but they are relatively rare when the procedure is performed by experienced oral surgeons. Potential risks include sinus membrane perforation, infection, and graft failure. However, these risks can be minimized with proper surgical technique and post-operative care. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail before the procedure.

Insurance coverage for sinus lift surgery varies by policy. Some dental insurance plans consider sinus lift surgery as a necessary preparatory step for dental implants and may cover a portion of the cost. However, coverage details differ widely, so it's important to check with your insurance provider. Additionally, many dental practices offer financing options to help manage the cost of the procedure.

Choosing Smile Science Dental Spa for your sinus lift means receiving care from a team that prioritizes safety, comfort, and the most favorable outcomes for dental implant success. Our detailed approach ensures that every step of the process is clear and tailored to meet your unique needs, setting the foundation for a restored, confident smile.