Sinus Lift

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What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift is a treatment that may be needed to add bone to the upper jaw in the area of the back teeth (molars and premolars) to enable successful implant placement. The maxillary sinuses are located above the upper jawbone on either side of your nose. When a tooth has been lost from the upper jaw, this often results in bone loss. Teeth that have been missing for a longer period of time or bone loss due to periodontal disease may further contribute to lack of bone for implant placement. To supplement the bone structure and allow for the successful placement of a dental implant, our periodontists may recommend an open or closed sinus lift. During this procedure, we gently lift the sinus membrane and push it up and away from the jaw. We then add bone grafting material in the area where the sinus was to add to the bone structure.

Sinus Lift

What is a closed sinus lift?

A closed sinus lift is a less invasive procedure typically done at the same time of dental implant placement. It utilizes the same channel that is prepared in your jawbone for dental implant placement to elevate the sinus lining and place bone graft material to increase the bone volume. After sufficient bone graft is placed, an implant will be placed. Because this procedure is often paired with dental implant placement, less healing time is needed prior to the final implant crown being placed.

What is an open sinus lift?

When extensive sinus pneumatization or bone loss has occurred, our periodontists will opt for an open sinus lift. During an open sinus lift, the gum tissue will be gently lifted and a “window” will be created on the cheek side of the upper jaw when a dental implant is planned. The sinus lining is then gently elevated, and the space created between the sinus lining and sinus floor is filled with bone graft material. We will typically allow for healing for six to nine months prior to placing dental implants.

For more information about whether a sinus lift in Greensboro, North Carolina, is right for your oral health needs, we invite you to contact Greensboro Perio today at 336-379-8377 to schedule an appointment with our periodontists, Dr. Luis Benitez and Dr. Veronica Longville.

This 65-year-old male presented with an upper back tooth to be removed. Due to low sinus tract, a sinus lift
was suggested & necessary for future implant placement. An open sinus lift was preformed to add foundation
and later an implant was placed.