Please note that this procedure may not be offered directly at our dental office. Call Fishinger Dental at (614) 771-6060 to learn more about your options for dental implants near you.
Key Takeaways
- A sinus lift procedure creates the bone support needed for secure dental implant placement in the upper jaw.
- The surgery raises the sinus membrane and adds bone grafting material to strengthen the maxillary sinus floor.
- Patients with bone loss, gum disease, or tooth loss in the upper jaw may benefit from this procedure.
- Sinus lift surgery improves long-term implant success, restoring both function and aesthetics for missing teeth.
- At Fishinger Dental in Hilliard, OH, our team can help you determine if you need a sinus lift before your dental implant treatment.
Dental Implants and Sinus Lifts in Hilliard, OH
If you’ve been told you need a sinus lift before receiving dental implants, you’re not alone. Many patients require this supplemental procedure due to bone resorption or the natural position of the sinus cavity.
At Fishinger Dental, we’re committed to restoring your smile with modern implant dentistry. Whether you’re missing one tooth or multiple teeth, our Hilliard dentist can guide you through every step of the dental implant process.
Call our dental office in Hilliard today at (614) 771-6060 to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and throughout Central Ohio.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, is a specialized oral surgery that increases bone height in the upper jaw to support dental implant placement. During the procedure, the dentist gently lifts the sinus membrane and places a bone graft to strengthen the jaw. Over time, the graft fuses with the natural bone, creating a durable foundation for dental implant surgery.
Why Is a Sinus Lift Necessary?
Not all patients need a sinus lift, but it’s often recommended when:
- Bone resorption has occurred due to tooth loss, gum disease, or tooth extraction.
- The sinus cavity sits too close to the planned implant site.
- The upper jaw doesn’t have enough natural bone density to hold implants securely.
By creating sufficient bone volume, the sinus lift procedure helps ensure long-term implant stability, improved oral health, and higher patient satisfaction.
Who Is a Candidate for a Sinus Lift?
Not everyone needs a sinus lift; however, you may need a sinus lift if you:
- Have missing teeth in the upper jaw with significant bone loss.
- Have naturally thin bone near the maxillary sinuses.
- Struggle with bone loss caused by gum disease or facial trauma.
- Want a permanent solution like implants instead of removable dentures.
Don’t know if you may need a sinus lift for dental implants? Contact Fishinger Dental at (614) 771-6060.
Bone Grafting Materials for Sinus Lifts
The success of a sinus augmentation surgery depends on the bone graft material used. Common options include:
- Autograft: Bone taken from your body (such as the hip or chin).
- Allograft: Donor bone from a tissue bank.
- Xenograft: Bone from an animal source, typically bovine.
- Synthetic grafts: Man-made materials like hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphate.
Each material has benefits, and our dental implant provider will recommend the best choice for your needs.
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
- Traditional Sinus Lift (Lateral Window Technique): The dentist accesses the sinus floor from the side of the jaw, lifts the sinus membrane, and places the grafting material.
- Osteotome Technique (Internal Lift): A less invasive approach where the sinus is lifted through the implant site, often allowing implant placement during the same procedure.
Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery for Dental Implants
A sinus lift surgery offers many advantages, making it a critical step for many implant patients:
- Creates enough bone to place dental implants successfully.
- Restores full chewing and speaking function.
- Improves smile aesthetics by supporting natural-looking tooth replacement.
- Reduces the risk of implant complications related to the sinus cavity.
- Provides a long-lasting foundation for implants that can last decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the recovery after a sinus lift procedure?
After the sinus lift procedure, most patients experience mild swelling or discomfort for a few days. Complete healing and bone integration may take several months before implant placement.
Is a sinus lift painful?
The sinus lift procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, making it comfortable for most patients. Some pain and swelling afterward is normal but manageable with prescribed care.
Can dental implants be placed immediately after a sinus lift?
In some cases, especially with the osteotome technique, implants can be placed at the same time as your sinus lift surgery. However, many patients need to wait a few months for the bone to heal fully.
Are there alternatives to sinus lift surgery?
Yes, there are alternatives to sinus lifts. Options like shorter implants, angled implants (All-on-4® dental implants), or full arch implant solutions may be considered depending on your bone structure.
Take the Next Step Toward Dental Implants
A sinus lift may be an important consideration in your journey to replacing missing teeth with implants. If you’re searching for a trusted dental implant provider near Hilliard, OH, call Fishinger Dental at (614) 771-6060 today.
We proudly serve patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and other nearby Central Ohio communities.
