Replacing a missing tooth can sometimes be complicated. If you’ve been missing a tooth for some time, your gum ridge can become smaller, making it more difficult to place an implant. A missing tooth can also cause the floor of your maxillary sinus to become lower over time. If the floor of your sinus is too close to your gums, it means that a dental implant could be unsafe – it may put your sinus in danger. A sinus lift is a special kind of oral surgery that moves your sinus to allow enough space for your oral surgeon to place an implant. Here’s what you need to know about sinus lifts and the role they play in setting dental implants.
The primary goal of a sinus lift procedure is to increase the amount of bone in your upper jaw. If you’ve lost bone in your upper jaw, your oral surgeon will recommend a sinus lift in order to make room for more bone. Your surgeon may recommend a sinus lift if you’ve lost teeth in your upper jaw, you’ve suffered from periodontal disease in the past, you’ve been missing teeth for so long that you’ve lost bone density, or your maxillary sinus is too close to your upper jaw. This procedure is typically used to prepare patients for the insertion of dental implants.
During a sinus lift procedure, your Lorton oral surgeon will use bone from your hip (or in some cases, cow bone) to increase the bone density in your upper jaw. Your oral surgeon will take X-rays or a CT scan of your jaw and sinus in order to map the area. Your surgeon will start the procedure by cutting through your gum tissue to expose the bone in the back of your mouth. Next, your surgeon will gently push the sinus membrane away from your jaw, pack bone-grafting material into the empty space below, and seal the gums with stitches. After a period of four to nine months, you’ll receive dental implants to replace your missing teeth.
After your sinus lift, you may experience swelling and bleeding. This is normal. You will want to avoid blowing your nose too forcefully or sneezing, as the force involved could dislodge either the bone graft material or the stitches. You’ll want to follow any treatment regimens your oral surgeon prescribes, such as saline sprays, anti-congestants, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics. After 7 to 10 days, you’ll be evaluated and your stitches will be removed. After a few months, the grafting material will be fully integrated with your jawbone, at which point you will be able to receive dental implants.
A sinus lift is an effective procedure for increasing the density of your upper jaw in preparation for a dental implant. When done properly, it can greatly increase the likelihood that your dental implants will successfully integrate with your jaw. To learn more about sinus lifts or dental implants, or to schedule a free consultation, contact Lorton Oral Surgery at (703) 436-4633.
Curious About Sinus Lifts? Everything You Need to Know About This Unique Dental Procedure
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