Sinus Lifting
A surgical procedure that increases bone height in the upper jaw so that dental implants can be placed safely where bone is insufficient.
Overview
The maxillary sinuses are air spaces that sit just above the upper jaw, close to the molars. When back teeth in the upper jaw are lost, these sinuses can drop down and thin the jawbone — and thin bone is a problem if implants are planned to replace those teeth.
Raising the floor of the sinus surgically, to increase the amount of bone in the area, is called a sinus lift. The sinus membrane is lifted gently and a graft is placed between it and the bone below, creating enough volume for the length and width of the implant.
How is the procedure done?
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure carried out under local anaesthetic. Through a small window opened from inside the mouth, the sinus membrane is raised to the required level; once there is enough height for the planned implant, bone granules are placed in the space created and the area is closed with sutures.
The procedure is carried out at the level of the roots of the missing teeth. The incision lines sit a little higher, but the operation is painless.
When are the implants placed?
Where very little bone remains beneath the sinus cavities, we wait four to six months before placing implants. Where there is somewhat more bone, the implants can go in during the same session as the sinus lift. The hardness and quality of the remaining bone are taken into account in that decision.
Healing
As with any surgery in the mouth, there may be some swelling for a few days. Take the medication prescribed and follow the advice given, and healing passes comfortably.
Why a sinus lift is worth it
- It gives a thinned upper jaw the bone volume that makes implant treatment possible.
- Carried out under local anaesthetic through a small window inside the mouth.
- Where enough bone is present, implants can be placed in the same session.
- The graft materials used are purified, tissue-compatible and produced to international certification.
Ready to start?
Book a consultation and we'll walk you through it, gently, and with no pressure.