Sinus augmentation, also called a sinus lift, is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. At The Dental Difference in Brick, NJ, Dr. Mosmen performs sinus augmentation to create adequate bone height for successful dental implant placement in the upper back teeth.
This procedure makes implants possible for patients who would otherwise lack sufficient bone for placement.
Preparing The Upper Jaw For Implants
The upper back teeth sit directly beneath the maxillary sinuses, air-filled spaces in the upper jaw. When these teeth are lost, the bone below the sinus often deteriorates, and the sinus cavity may expand downward, leaving insufficient bone height for implant placement.
Sinus augmentation lifts the sinus membrane upward and adds bone graft material to the space created, rebuilding the bone height needed to support implants.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Dr. Mosmen performs sinus augmentation using precise surgical techniques. A small opening is created in the bone where the upper teeth used to be. The sinus membrane is gently lifted upward, creating space between the membrane and the jawbone. Bone graft material is placed into this space, building up the bone height. The incision is closed, and the area is left to heal.
In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as the sinus lift. In other cases, the bone graft must heal for several months before implant placement can occur.
Increasing Bone Height Safely
Sinus augmentation is a safe, well-established procedure when performed by an experienced dentist. Dr. Mosmen uses Cone Beam CT imaging to evaluate sinus anatomy, plan the procedure with precision, identify any anatomical variations, and ensure safe execution.
The sinus membrane is delicate, and careful surgical technique is essential to avoid perforation. Dr. Mosmen’s advanced training and surgical experience ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively.
Healing Timeline & Expectations
After sinus augmentation, the bone graft material needs time to integrate with your existing bone and harden into solid, stable bone. This healing process typically takes four to six months for the bone to mature sufficiently for implant placement, with complete healing and maturation continuing for several additional months.
During the healing period, the grafted bone gradually becomes part of your natural jawbone, creating a strong foundation for implants.
Post-Operative Care Includes:
- Avoiding blowing your nose for several weeks
- Sneezing with your mouth open to reduce sinus pressure
- Taking prescribed medications, including antibiotics
- Using nasal decongestants as directed
- Eating soft foods while healing
- Avoiding strenuous activity initially
Most patients experience minimal discomfort and return to normal activities within a few days.
Sinus Anatomy & Implant Planning
Every patient’s sinus anatomy is unique. Dr. Mosmen uses 3D Cone Beam CT imaging to evaluate the size and shape of your sinuses, the thickness of the bone beneath them, the position of blood vessels and nerves, and the amount of bone augmentation needed.
This detailed planning ensures the sinus lift is performed safely and that adequate bone is created for successful implant placement.
When Sinus Augmentation Is Needed
Sinus augmentation is recommended when you need implants in the upper back teeth but don’t have enough bone height due to natural anatomy, bone loss from gum disease, tooth loss that occurred many years ago, enlarged sinuses, or previous tooth extractions without bone preservation.
Without sinus augmentation, implants in these areas would penetrate the sinus cavity or lack adequate bone support, leading to implant failure.
Long-Term Implant Success
Sinus augmentation creates a stable, permanent foundation for dental implants. Once the grafted bone has healed, implants placed in the augmented area have success rates comparable to implants placed in natural bone.
The added bone integrates fully with your existing jaw, supporting implants for decades with proper care.
Make
Implants Possible
At The Dental Difference, sinus augmentation is performed with advanced surgical techniques and meticulous planning to ensure safe, successful outcomes. Dr. Mosmen's expertise in implant dentistry and bone grafting makes implants possible even in challenging cases. Call our Brick, NJ office or book online if you've been told you don't have enough bone for upper implants. Dr. Mosmen will evaluate your anatomy and create a treatment plan that makes implants a reality.