Sinus lift surgery, also known as sinus augmentation, is a dental procedure that enhances the bone structure of the upper jaw to prepare for dental implants. This surgical technique is crucial for individuals who lack sufficient bone height in the posterior maxilla, where the molars and premolars are located.
Why Is Sinus Lift Surgery Necessary?
Sinus lift surgery becomes necessary when the bone in the upper jaw is not thick enough to support dental implants. Factors such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, or natural bone resorption can lead to bone loss in the posterior maxilla. Insufficient bone density can lead to complications during the integration of dental implants with the jawbone, jeopardizing their stability and long-term effectiveness.
How Is Sinus Lift Surgery Done?
Before the procedure, imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans are often conducted to assess the structure of the skull and the density of the jawbone. This helps the surgeon plan the surgery and determine the best approach.
Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area where the surgery will be performed. The surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue, typically near the premolar or molar teeth. This creates a flap of gum tissue that exposes the underlying bone.
The space created beneath the sinus membrane is filled with bone graft material. This bone graft can be sourced from the bone of the patient (autograft), a donor (allograft), or synthetic materials (alloplastic grafts). The bone graft serves as a scaffold for new bone growth.
After placing the bone graft, the dentist sutures the gum tissue back into place. Over the following months, the bone graft material integrates with the existing bone, a process known as osseointegration. During this time, the bone volume in the area increases, providing a stable foundation for dental implants if they are part of the treatment plan.
Sinus lift surgery is a vital procedure that enables individuals with inadequate bone structure in the upper jaw to benefit from dental implants. If you are considering dental implants but lack sufficient bone in the posterior maxilla, consult our dental professional to determine if sinus lift surgery is right for you.
About Us | Dental Implants West Linn, OR | Oral Solutions NW As oral surgery specialists, we here at Oral Solutions NW use the latest technology and advanced techniques to provide a supreme level of care! Oral Solutions NW, 22400 Salamo Rd. Suite # 205, West Linn, OR 97068 ~ (971) 447-0164 ~ oralsolutionsnw.com ~ 10/14/2024 ~ Page Keywords: dental implants West Linn OR ~
