A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a specialized oral surgery designed to increase bone volume in the upper jaw near your molars and premolars. This procedure is often necessary before placing dental implants when bone loss has occurred in the back of the upper jaw. If you have experienced tooth loss or have had missing teeth for an extended period, the bone in this area may have resorbed or deteriorated, making it difficult to support a dental implant.
The maxillary sinuses are located just above the upper jawbone on either side of your nose. When the bone between your mouth and the sinus cavity is too thin, placing a dental implant in this area may not be feasible. A sinus lift helps correct this issue by adding new bone material to build up the jaw and create a stable foundation for implant placement.
How the Procedure Works
During a sinus lift, our oral surgeons will access the sinus cavity through a small opening in the bone. The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward and bone grafting material is placed into the newly created space. This graft may consist of bone from your own body, a donor source or synthetic materials, depending on your unique needs and preferences.
After the grafting material is placed, the area is carefully closed to begin the healing process. Over the next several months — typically between four to nine — the graft integrates with your existing bone. Once the area has healed and sufficient bone density has been achieved, Dr. Jiries Mogannam, Dr. Vicente Chavez, Dr. Christopher Chow or Dr. William Verlinden can move forward with dental implant placement.
Why a Sinus Lift May Be Recommended
Our experienced oral surgeons may recommend a sinus lift if:
- You are missing teeth in the upper back jaw.
- Bone loss from periodontal disease has reduced jawbone height.
- Tooth loss occurred many years ago and the bone has resorbed.
- Your maxillary sinus is naturally too close to the jaw for implant placement.
Restore Your Smile With Confidence
A sinus lift can be the first step toward restoring your smile with long-lasting, stable dental implants. If you have been told you lack the necessary bone for implants, a sinus lift in Petaluma, California, may provide the support you need. Contact Petaluma Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center today at 707-769-1414 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for improving your oral health.