Sinus Lift

The popularity of dental implants has been growing, and there are many good reasons for this growth. Dental implants are tough and durable, and they can last a patient for the rest of their life if they are cared for well. They look great and are very realistic. They can be used just like a natural tooth, and they are cared for just like one. 

However, not everyone is a good candidate for implants. When that’s the case with a patient, getting a sinus lift may be right for them. This can make them ready to get a dental implant even if they have bone loss in the area. 

What’s a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a type of facial surgery that people get when they have had bone loss in their jaw and need more bone to hold a dental implant. A dental implant includes getting a titanium post implanted directly into the jaw. There has to be thick, dense bone to hold it securely in place to do this. 

When a patient doesn’t have enough bone, it can be for many reasons. Often, there is bone deterioration after a patient has lost a tooth, making them a bad candidate for a dental implant. Sometimes, gum disease can cause that bone loss. Whatever the cause, getting a sinus lift can help them to be better candidates for an implant. 

A sinus lift is performed to give you more bone available for implants in the upper jaw. With this procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted up in the area between your molars and premolars to add bone to it. Once it is completed, the extra bone added will allow for an implant to be placed into it for a replacement tooth. At Trillium Oral Surgery and Implantology, our doctors are well-trained in this procedure and perform it for many people who want a dental implant. 

The Sinus Lift Procedure

When you need more bone on your upper jaw, you will first get X-rays to check the amount of bone you have. Then, the doctor can assess the amount of bone you need. During the procedure, you may only need a local anesthetic, or you may need sedation. It all depends on your specific needs and what you prefer. If you are nervous about the procedure, you can be sedated while it’s performed to keep you comfortable. 

After having the surgery, you will need a few months to heal from it before your implant can be placed. The healing time is generally from four months to a year. Your healing time depends on your specific procedure and your overall health. You may need some pain medication after the surgery, and this might be over-the-counter or prescription medicine, whichever is needed for your comfort. 

Sinus Lift Surgery in Plymouth, Ann Arbor, and Chelsea

If you have been told that you’re not a good candidate for getting a dental implant, we may be able to help with a sinus lift. Give us a call at Trillium Oral Surgery and Implantology to schedule your appointment for a consultation about the procedure.