A sinus lift is often referred to by many different terms – sinus graft, sinus augmentation, sinus procedure, or maxillary sinus floor augmentation. All these terms describe a procedure that places a bone graft under the sinus membrane. The graft adds to the bone volume in the upper jawbone.

Tooth loss, dental injuries, and periodontal disease can all contribute to bone loss in the maxillary sinus area. Prolonged tooth loss causes the socket to collapse. Maxillary molar and premolar area collapses can extend the volume loss into the maxillary sinus region.

Once bone loss has passed a certain degree, dental implants can be unsuccessful. The missing bone will not allow the implant to bond correctly. A sinus lift can increase the bone density enough to ultimately place an implant.

Healing from a sinus lift can last from four to 12 months, although the procedure is a fairly simple one. An incision is made in the gums, keeping the face free from scars. A small piece of bone is removed above the Schneiderian membrane, and a graft is placed. Sutures are then placed to close the gums.

The type of graft needed will be discussed with the patient, and Dr. Babiuk will help decide which is best for the procedure.

The maxillary sinus is located underneath the eyes and above the upper molars. The maxillary sinuses are the largest of the four paranasal sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled holes found in the bone that reduce skull weight, produce mucus, and affect the tone quality of a person’s voice. With age and tooth loss, the sinuses expand and the jawbone begins to resorb. This happens because the roots of the upper teeth often support the floor of the sinus. When the teeth are no longer present, the very thin sinus floor begins to drop.

A sinus lift or sinus augmentation rebuilds the resorbed walls of bone that form the floor of the sinus. The floor of the sinus is raised and new bone is allowed to form. A sinus lift procedure can help increase the volume of bone in order for a dental implant to be placed. The dental implant will then serve as the tooth’s root and help support the floor of the sinus. By adding more bone in this location, the dental implants can be placed and the missing teeth are replaced!

Am I a candidate for a sinus lift procedure?

• Missing molars in the back of your top jaw

• Missing a significant amount of bone in the top jaw

• Missing teeth due to a congenital or birth defect

• Missing teeth on the top jaw and want dental implants