A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure performed in the upper jaw to create additional bone volume for placing dental implants. Dental implants are small, screw-like posts that replace missing tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled cavities located in the upper jawbone, behind the cheekbones, and above the back teeth. When teeth in the upper back jaw are lost due to decay, gum disease, or injury, the bone in that area can deteriorate over time. This bone loss can leave insufficient bone volume and strength to support dental implants.
Sinus lift surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia or IV sedation. The specific recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and your individual healing process.
1. After Surgery:
You may experience some swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding in the surgical area. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage discomfort.
2. Healing:
Complete healing of the bone graft and sinus membrane can take several months. During this time, it's crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and follow your dentist's post-operative instructions carefully.
3. Implant Placement:
Once the bone graft has integrated with the jawbone and sufficient healing has occurred (usually 4-8 months), dental implants can be placed.