Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they allow for a wide range of additional benefits, including being more stable, comfortable, and long-lasting. To achieve this, getting dental implants requires a surgical procedure, and sometimes preliminary procedures, like a sinus lift. Continue reading to learn more about sinus lifts and why they are sometimes necessary.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a procedure that is performed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw. It involves making an incision in the gum tissue and a hole in the upper jawbone. From here, your dentist can gently push your sinus upward before performing a bone graft. This will give your future dental implants a strong foundation to support them. Lastly, the gums are closed so the healing period can commence.
Why are Sinus Lifts Necessary?
When you have suffered from tooth loss, your jawbone is no longer being stimulated with regular chewing and biting. Because of this, your body begins to reabsorb the bone, so it will ultimately shrink over time. Dental implants help to prevent this because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for jawbone stimulation again. If you have already encountered bone loss from tooth loss, your jawbone may not be strong enough to support a dental implant long-term. That’s where bone grafting can help.
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that helps to replace missing bone tissue. Since your sinus is located directly above your upper jaw, it may need to be gently pushed upward for the bone graft to take place. Once the site has healed, your bone will be stronger and healthier. This gives the dental implants a much higher chance of being successful. Here are some situations where you may need a sinus lift:
- You have been missing teeth for a long time
- You have naturally large sinus cavity
- You have a naturally thin jawbone
- A cyst of tumor has been removed from the area
- You have experienced trauma to the jawbone
- You have experienced bone loss due to periodontitis
A sinus lift might sound like a roadblock, but it may be what’s needed to give you successful and healthy dental implants with minimal risk of complications. You will be showing off a complete smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Admasu Gizachew is a skilled oral surgery dentist who earned his dental doctorate from New York University. Since then, he has remained committed to continuing education, logging nearly 300 hours each year. Dr. G has earned Top Dentist awards in both New Jersey and New York multiple years in a row. To learn more about sinus lifts or to schedule an appointment at his office in Staten Island, visit his website or call (718) 841-0920.