Sinus Lift
Improve Your Chances For Implants
Expand Your Tooth Replacement Options With Sinus Lifts in Virginia Beach
Missing upper back teeth can create challenges when you're ready to replace them with dental implants. Over time, the bone in this area may become too thin to provide adequate support. Sinus lifts in Virginia Beach can address this problem, making it possible for you to pursue stable, implant-supported replacement teeth.
With sufficient bone support, dental implants can help you regain chewing function and enjoy a more complete smile. If you've been told that you lack sufficient bone for implants in your upper jaw, schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons to find out whether a sinus lift could help you move forward.
Discover How Sinus Lift Surgery Works
A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, gently elevates the membrane lining the sinus floor so bone graft material can be placed beneath it. The graft provides a framework for new bone to develop, increasing the available support for implants in the upper jaw. This procedure is planned carefully to protect the sinus membrane and surrounding structures.
Before surgery, detailed 3-D imaging helps your oral surgeon examine the sinus anatomy, measure existing bone, and determine the appropriate treatment approach. Depending on the amount of bone already present, dental implants may sometimes be placed during the same procedure. Other patients need several months of graft healing before implant placement can begin.
See how sinus lifts in Virginia Beach can help overcome upper jawbone deficiencies and support your plans for dental implants.
Create Space for New Bone
Carefully elevating the sinus membrane allows graft material to be positioned beneath it, encouraging additional bone development in the upper jaw.
Prepare for Upper Dental Implants
Increasing bone height can help establish the support needed to replace missing upper molars or premolars with dental implants.
Address Sinus-Related Limitations
Sinus augmentation may provide a solution when the position of the sinus cavity leaves inadequate room for implant placement.
Plan Around Your Anatomy
Three-dimensional imaging helps your surgeon evaluate the sinus floor, surrounding bone, and other important structures before treatment.
Support Bone Regeneration
Grafting material provides a framework for natural bone formation. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) may also be used during appropriate grafting procedures to support healing.
Coordinate Future Tooth Replacement
Your surgeon determines whether implants can be placed alongside the graft or whether additional healing time is needed before proceeding with restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sinus Lifts
Q What is a dental sinus lift?
A dental sinus lift is a bone grafting procedure that increases available bone height in the upper back jaw. The surgeon raises the sinus membrane and places graft material beneath it to create additional support for future dental implants.
Q Why would I need a sinus lift before dental implants?
A sinus lift may be necessary when the upper jaw lacks sufficient bone height to securely accommodate an implant. This can occur because of tooth loss, natural sinus anatomy, or gradual bone deterioration.
Q Is a sinus lift the same as a bone graft?
A sinus lift is a specialized type of bone grafting performed beneath the floor of the maxillary sinus. Unlike other jawbone grafting procedures, it specifically increases bone height in the upper posterior jaw.
Q Can dental implants be placed during a sinus lift?
In some cases, implants can be placed during the same appointment as sinus augmentation if enough existing bone is available to stabilize them. Otherwise, the graft must heal before implant placement.
Q Does sinus lift surgery affect normal sinus function?
A properly performed sinus lift is designed to preserve the sinus membrane and maintain normal sinus function. Temporary congestion or pressure may occur during recovery, and complications such as membrane perforation or sinus infection are possible.
Q How long does recovery take after a sinus lift?
Initial recovery after a sinus lift typically takes one to two weeks, although swelling and tenderness often improve sooner. Bone graft maturation can take several months before the area is ready for dental implant placement.
Q Can I blow my nose after sinus lift surgery?
Patients are generally advised to avoid blowing their nose for a period after sinus lift surgery because the resulting pressure can disturb the healing sinus membrane or graft. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions about sneezing, nasal care, and activity restrictions.
Q Are there alternatives to sinus lift surgery?
Depending on the amount of existing bone and the planned restoration, alternatives to sinus lift surgery may include shorter implants, different implant positions, or other tooth replacement approaches. A surgeon must evaluate the patient's anatomy to determine which options are appropriate.
