A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that is designed to increase bone structure in the upper back portion of the jaw. During the procedure, the membrane is lifted from the sinus, and bone grafting material is placed. The grafting material fuses to the jawbone and helps promote the growth of additional bone tissue in the jaw.
Candidates
Below is a summary of patients who are good candidates for a sinus lift:
- Patients missing one or more teeth in the posterior maxilla or upper back portion of the jaw
- Patients with significant bone loss in their posterior maxilla
- Those with missing teeth caused by birth defects or genetics
Procedure
The sinus lift procedure begins with the surgeon making an incision into the patient’s gum tissue. The gum tissue is then pulled back to expose the wall of the sinus. A window is then created in the sinus, which exposes the Schneiderian membrane, which is separated from the bone. Lastly, the dental professional will place the bone grafting material. Once complete, the gums are sutured closed. It takes about four to nine months for the graft to heal.
Grafting Material
Various grafting materials can be used, which include an autograft, allograft, xenograft, alloplast, synthetic variants, or a combination of these materials. Data suggests that simply lifting the membrane in the sinus helps stimulate the formation of new bone tissue and promotes bone regeneration. The procedure is highly effective, and the risk of complications is extremely rare.
Complications
While complications are rare and unlikely, they are possible. One major risk associated with a sinus lift is the potential to pierce or rip the sinus membrane. If this occurs, it is resolved by placing a patch over the area or stitching the tear back together. Another possible solution is to stop the surgery and allow the tear to heal on its own. This usually takes about three to six months. The sinus membrane often grows back even thicker and stronger. This increases the success of the second attempt at the procedure.
Below are other possible risks and complications associated with a sinus lift:
- Allergic reaction
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Swelling or inflammation
- Pain
- Nerve or tissue damage
- Scar tissue
- Graft or implant failure
Recovery
In order for the grafting material to fuse to the patient’s natural bone, it takes about three to six months. The patient must be fully healed from the sinus lift before the dental implants can be placed. In some cases, the surgeon will complete the sinus lift and place the dental implant during the same appointment to help expedite the treatment timeline and recovery. Patients should work with their dental team to review their specific treatment plan and timeline.
Sinus Lift History
The first sinus lift was performed in 1974 by Dr. Hilt Tatum Jr. In 1975, Tatum completed the first sinus graft procedure, followed by the placement of two dental implants. During the first few years of performing the procedure, an inflatable catheter was used to lift the sinuses. Over time, the instruments, technology, and procedures have significantly improved.
Patients who are interested in receiving dental implants should call the office today. The team can help determine if you first require a sinus lift. We can discuss the procedure and answer any questions you may have during the initial consultation.