The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces located behind the cheeks and above the upper back teeth. In some patients, the roots of the upper teeth extend close to the sinus area. After tooth loss, the bone separating the sinus and the mouth may become too thin to support dental implants.

A successful dental implant requires sufficient bone volume and strength for proper stability. When bone loss occurs due to tooth loss, injury, or periodontal disease, a sinus lift (sinus augmentation) may be recommended to rebuild the upper jawbone and create enough space for implant placement.

During a sinus lift, the sinus floor is gently raised and bone graft material is added to encourage new bone growth. Once the area heals, the newly formed bone provides a stable foundation for dental implants.

A sinus lift is typically performed by creating a small opening in the upper jaw near the molar or premolar area. The sinus membrane is carefully lifted, and bone graft material is placed into the space beneath it.

The graft material may come from your own body, a donor source, or specially designed synthetic materials that support bone regeneration. Once the graft is placed, the area is closed and allowed to heal.

Over the following months, the graft integrates with your existing bone, creating the support needed for dental implant placement.

In some cases, if enough bone is already available to stabilize the implant, the sinus lift and implant placement may be completed during the same procedure. If additional healing time is needed, the sinus augmentation is completed first, and implants are placed after the graft has matured.

Sinus augmentation has helped many patients become candidates for dental implants when traditional treatment options may not have been possible.

A sinus lift is typically performed in our office using local anesthesia. For patients who prefer additional comfort, oral or intravenous sedation options may also be available.