How we overcome barriers to implant placement with the sinus lift procedure
As a specialty center, Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry has the on-site capabilities and expertise to perform many advanced and complex treatments that cannot be found at other dentists’ offices in the Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley, Arizona area. These treatments include sinus lift surgery for dental implants.
What is a “sinus lift”?
Sinus lift surgery can help correct a unique type of deficiency caused by tooth loss in the upper, backmost portion of the jaw. By performing this procedure, we can build up sufficient healthy bone, which is required before the placement of dental implants.
Why would I need a sinus lift?
To replace teeth with implants, you must have adequate bone and high-quality, dense, healthy bony tissue. However, due to the nature of the sinus area, the bone tends to be thin. Plus, the close proximity of the potential implant site to the sinuses can add to the complexity of treatment here. The loss of bone that occurs due to tooth loss or periodontal/gum disease only exacerbates the challenges naturally associated with treating the upper, back teeth with implants. As a pre-treatment procedure, the sinus lift can “ready” the bone at the back of your jaw for implant placement. It promotes the regrowth of bone to ensure adequate amounts of dense, high-quality bone.
Why do I need sufficient, quality bone before implants?
The quantity (volume) and quality (density) of bone are key to implant success. When there is inadequate healthy bone for the implant, the risk of failure is great. In fact, the bone and implant may not integrate or grow together properly in the first place. When this occurs, your implant lacks the support it needs. So, it may be unstable and loose. A lack of bone in the sinus area can even damage the sinuses, as the implant may perforate the thin membrane separating this cavity from the mouth. This complication can lead to inflammation, pain, infection, nasal congestion, pressure, and bleeding. A sinus lift or sinus augmentation prevents implant failures and other consequences by building up the area before implant placement.
How is the sinus lift performed?
Generally, the surgery is true to its name – the sinus floor and developing bone are lifted for the placement of implants. Many techniques can be used to accomplish this. One of the most common forms is to access the bone and then make an opening in the outer part of the jaw. The bone substitute or graft is then introduced to this area. Think of this process as similar to how a trap door works; this part of the jaw and lining of the cavity is lifted, and then the space underneath is filled with the graft material. In the next six to eight months, the bone graft will gradually “take.” New, dense bone is regenerated.
What happens after the bone heals?
Following this initial treatment, your jaw is now ready for implants! There is another healing period as the implants integrate or grow with the new bone. Sometimes, we may be able to perform a two–in–one treatment, sinus augmentation and implant placement, during the same visit.
Bone loss and the specific location of your missing teeth should never preclude you from rebuilding your smile on your own terms. You can benefit from your tooth replacement of choice by turning to Desert Ridge Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Schedule your appointment at our Scottsdale, AZ office today by calling (602) 932-6297.
At Desert Ridge Periodontics, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Dan Indech, DDS, a board-certified periodontist with more than 30 years of experience in periodontal care, dental implants, and laser surgery. Trained at leading institutions in Canada, the U.S., and Sweden, he has placed over 10,000 implants and is nationally recognized for his work in Implantology and LANAP® laser periodontal therapy.
Dr. Indech and the team deliver compassionate, evidence-based periodontal and implant care focused on long-term oral health and personalized treatment.
