Considering a Sinus Lift? Here's What to Know

When bone loss threatens your dental implant dreams, a sinus lift might be the solution you never knew you needed. Often, dental implant patients require a sinus lift procedure before implant placement due to insufficient bone height in the upper jaw. While having sinus surgery may sound overwhelming, this procedure has transformed countless smiles by allowing patients who were once told they couldn't have implants to achieve the functional, beautiful teeth they desire. 

If you're facing challenges with bone loss in your upper jaw or your dentist believes a sinus augmentation is right for you, this guide will walk you through everything you need to understand. Read on to discover when a sinus lift is usually recommended, what to expect during and after surgery, and where to find the best periodontist in San Francisco.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift procedure is a dental surgery that creates more bone in your upper jaw, specifically where your back teeth, known as molars and premolars, are located. Also called sinus augmentation, this procedure gently pushes up the sinus membrane and fills the space underneath with bone grafting material. Think of it as building a stronger foundation for dental implants when your natural bone isn't thick or tall enough to support them. The procedure gets its name because it literally lifts the sinus floor upward, creating room for new bone to develop. This additional bone height and density provide the solid base needed for successful dental implant placement in the upper jaw.

When is a Sinus Lift Surgery Usually Recommended?

Your dentist might recommend sinus lift surgery when you don't have enough bone in your upper jaw to support dental implants. This commonly happens after you've lost upper back teeth, especially if they've been missing for some time. Without the stimulation from tooth roots, your jawbone naturally begins to shrink away in a process known as bone resorption. 

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, can also destroy bone tissue around your teeth. Additionally, the maxillary sinuses might be too close to the jaw in some people, leaving insufficient space for implants. In these situations, a sinus lift creates the foundation needed for successful implants by adding bone height between your jaw and sinuses. This procedure is particularly common for people planning to get dental implants for molars and premolars in the upper jaw.

What Happens During a Sinus Lift Surgery?

Sinus lift surgery isn’t as complex as you might think it to be. Although the procedure may sound painful, it’s important to remember that you'll be under local anesthesia during the entire surgery, so you won't feel pain. Your oral surgeon may also recommend dental sedation techniques if you are particularly anxious about the procedure. The procedure itself is done in a few simple steps: 

• Your oral surgeon will begin by making a small incision in your gums, where your missing teeth used to be, exposing the bone beneath. 
• Next, your surgeon will create a tiny window in this bone to access the sinus membrane above. 
• Using specialized instruments, the surgeon carefully pushes the membrane upward, creating a pocket.
• This pocket is then filled with bone graft material, which might come from your own body, a donor, or synthetic sources. 
• Lastly, the gum tissue is stitched closed to protect the surgical site. 

The entire procedure typically takes 90 minutes to two hours. After surgery, the grafted bone needs about four to nine months to integrate and develop blood vessels, becoming part of your natural jaw structure before dental implants can be placed.

What Can You Expect During Recovery from Sinus Lift Surgery?

After your sinus lift surgery, expect some facial swelling and minor bleeding from your mouth or nose for the first few days. These symptoms are normal and should gradually improve. 

After your procedure, the periodontist will also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and give you recommendations for pain medication to manage discomfort. Additional instructions may include: 

• Cold compresses are applied to the outside of your face to help reduce swelling
• Eat soft foods
• Sleep with your head elevated to also help reduce swelling 
• Avoid blowing your nose, sneezing forcefully, or using straws, as these actions create pressure that could dislodge the bone graft or tear stitches

While you'll likely feel better within a week or two, the bone graft needs about four to nine months to fully integrate with your existing bone before implants can be placed. During this time, you'll have several follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.

What Are the Risks of Getting a Sinus Lift?

Like any surgery, sinus lifts come with the potential of experiencing complications or side effects. It is important to remember, however, that serious issues are uncommon. 

Risks of sinus lift surgery include: 

• The most frequent concern is tearing the sinus membrane during the lifting process. If this occurs, your surgeon will repair it immediately or postpone the procedure until it heals. 
• Infection is another risk, though antibiotics typically prevent this complication. 
• Some patients experience implant or graft failure if the bone doesn't integrate properly with existing tissue. 
• Rarely, patients might notice changes in sinus function or experience ongoing discomfort. 
• Allergic reactions to graft materials can occur, but are extremely uncommon. 

The good news is that these risks drop significantly when you choose an experienced oral surgeon or periodontist who performs sinus lifts regularly. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Sinus Lift?

Ideal candidates for sinus lift procedures typically have lost one or more upper back teeth and want dental implants but lack sufficient bone height for successful placement. Additionally, you might be a good candidate if your bone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, or simply having naturally large sinuses that extend downward into your jaw area. 

During your evaluation, your dentist will take detailed 3D dental images of your jaw and sinuses using CT scans or cone beam imaging to measure your existing bone. They'll also assess your overall health, as conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or certain medications might affect healing. Smokers can still undergo the procedure, but may have higher risks of complications and slower healing times. Ideally, good candidates for this surgery will be non-smokers who have good overall health. 

Where to Find the Best Periodontist for a Sinus Lift in San Francisco

East Bay Periodontics and Implant Dentistry offers a team of highly trained periodontists who bring specialized expertise to complex procedures like sinus augmentation, combining advanced surgical techniques with compassionate patient care. What truly sets our clinic apart is our comprehensive approach, where patients receive personalized treatment plans following thorough evaluations using state-of-the-art imaging technology. 

Our team of highly rated, expert oral surgeons in San Francisco is also committed to continuing education that ensures they stay current with the latest advancements in periodontal surgery and bone grafting techniques. With a proven track record of successful sinus lifts and subsequent dental implant placements, we offer our patients the perfect blend of surgical excellence and genuine care that creates positive, long-lasting results.

Ready to get a sinus lift evaluation from the best sinus lift oral surgeon in San Francisco?