Sinus Lifts
Improve Your Chances For Dental Implants
Prepare Your Upper Jaw for Implants With Sinus Lifts in Pasco
A sinus lift is an oral surgery procedure that adds bone volume to the floor of the sinus cavity in your upper jaw. It gives you the foundation needed for dental implants to integrate successfully. Dr. Leavens recommends sinus lifts in Pasco if the bone in your upper jaw is too thin or too close to the sinus to support implant placement. The procedure gives the area the necessary height for future implants.
To ensure a successful procedure, Dr. Leavens uses 3-D imaging to examine your jaw before any treatment begins. He only recommends surgery if it's necessary. Once the grafted bone has integrated and healed, implants can be placed with the stability needed for long-term function. If you feel nervous, oral sedation is available. Our team will ensure the healing process goes smoothly and will monitor your progress throughout.
Common Questions About Sinus Lifts
Q What is a sinus lift?
A sinus lift is an oral surgery procedure that adds bone volume to the floor of the sinus cavity in your upper jaw. It creates the height and density needed to support dental implants in the upper area of your mouth. A sinus lift may be part of an implant preparation plan. Your dentist may recommend it if your upper jawbone lacks sufficient volume for implant placement.
Q Why would I need a sinus lift before getting dental implants?
You may need a sinus lift before getting dental implants if the bone in your upper jaw is too thin or too close to the sinus floor. This is most common if you have experienced bone loss or if you have been missing upper teeth for an extended period. You may also need the procedure before implants if your sinus anatomy leaves limited space for implant placement.
Q How do I know if I need a sinus lift?
The only way to know for certain whether you need a sinus lift is through a thorough exam. Your team performs this evaluation during your implant consultation. We'll measure your available bone height and assess the position of your sinus floor using 3-D imaging. Your dentist will determine whether there is sufficient space for implant placement or whether a sinus lift is needed first.
Q What happens during a sinus lift procedure?
During a sinus lift, your dentist creates a small opening in the gum tissue to access the upper jaw. He will gently lift the sinus area to create space beneath it. Bone grafting material, sourced from another part of your body or from donor bone, is then placed in that space to build up the floor of the sinus cavity. The area is carefully closed, and the healing process begins. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you don't feel a thing.
Q Does a sinus lift hurt?
A sinus lift does not hurt during the procedure. Your team applies local anesthesia before surgery begins. You're completely comfortable throughout. Oral sedation is available if you feel anxious about the procedure. It produces a deep state of calm that makes the experience more manageable. You will receive guidance on managing your recovery to avoid discomfort or problems.
Q How long does it take to recover from a sinus lift?
Initial recovery from a sinus lift typically involves managing any swelling and mild discomfort for the first few days following the procedure. You will typically feel better within a week. The more significant part of the sinus lift timeline is the healing period after. During that time, the grafted bone integrates with your existing jaw structure. It's a process that typically takes several months before implants can be placed.
Q How long does the full process take from sinus lift to implant placement?
The full process from sinus lift to implant placement typically spans several months. The exact timeline depends on how much bone needs to be added and how quickly your body integrates the grafting material. During this period, our team monitors your bone development. Your dentist walks you through a realistic timeline during your consultation. You'll have a clear picture of what to expect before committing to treatment.
Q Where does the bone for a sinus lift come from?
The bone used in a sinus lift can come from several sources. Our team may use bone tissue taken from another area of your own body, donor bone from a tissue bank, or synthetic bone grafting material. It depends on your specific situation and what your dentist determines will produce the best outcome. Each source has its own advantages. Our team selects the most appropriate option based on the amount of bone needed and your individual health needs.
