When Is A Sinus Lift Needed For Dental Implants?
Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, graduated with honors from the prestigious Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine in New York. Following her graduation, Dr. Perrone completed a one-year residency in Advanced Education of General Dentistry at the same institution. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Perrone is... more
Looking for an effective solution to replace missing teeth? Dental implants offer remarkable benefits for individuals facing tooth loss. However, achieving long-term success with dental implants depends on a solid foundation in the jawbone.
If you have a thin or weakened jawbone, don't worry! Dr. Perrone may suggest a sinus lift procedure before implant placement to ensure optimal support and durability.
What Is A Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift, also referred to as maxillary sinus floor augmentation, is a specialized dental surgery designed to fortify the upper jawbone for the placement of dental implants. This procedure involves a bone graft to reinforce the area beneath the sinus cavity in the upper jaw.
Gently elevating the sinus membrane creates space for new bone growth. As the grafted material integrates with your body, it strengthens the upper jaw, providing a sturdy foundation for dental implants.
When Is A Sinus Lift Needed?
When significant bone loss occurs in the upper jaw, a sinus lift can be a viable solution. Over time, the jawbone weakens and deteriorates after tooth loss or extraction. If you've been wearing a denture or dental bridge for an extended period or have an untreated missing tooth, Dr. Perrone may suggest a sinus lift procedure to address the situation.
There are various reasons why a sinus lift may be necessary, including:
Insufficient Distance to Maxillary Sinus: If the maxillary sinus is too close to the upper jaw, there is a higher risk of implant penetration. A sinus lift procedure adds bone material to strengthen the area, ensuring a secure implant placement.
Periodontal Disease: can lead to significant bone recession in the jaws, potentially necessitating a sinus lift before implant placement.
Untreated Tooth Decay: can spread to the surrounding bone, weakening it and rendering it unsuitable for an implant. In such cases, a sinus lift is performed to reinforce the area prior to implant placement.
To determine if a sinus lift is required, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive examination by a dentist or oral surgeon.
What Can I Expect From A Sinus Lift Procedure?
Before your sinus lift procedure, your oral surgeon will collaborate with you to determine the ideal source of bone for the surgery. Common options for sinus augmentation include:
- Autogenous bone: Derived from your own body.
- Allogeneic bone: Obtained from a cadaver.
- Xenograft: Sourced from animals, typically cows.
- Synthetic: Bone-like material.
Once the appropriate bone source is identified, your oral surgeon will employ X-rays, CBCT scans, and oral scans to assess the dimensions of your jawbone, including height and width.
You will receive oral or intravenous sedatives during the procedure to ensure your comfort and numb the area. Small incisions will be made in your gums to expose the underlying jawbone. Subsequently, the surgeon will create a small opening in the bone, elevate the sinus cavity, and fill the space with the chosen bone graft material. Finally, sutures will be applied to close the incisions, completing the procedure. It typically takes 4-6 months for the bone graft to fuse with your jawbone, promoting stability and integration.
Conclusion
A sinus lift can be a crucial step toward achieving successful dental implant placement, enhancing your smile, and improving your overall oral health. If you're considering dental implants or believe you could benefit from a sinus lift, don't hesitate to contact your Dr. Marielaina Perrone.
Dr. Perrone will provide comprehensive information about the procedure, enabling you to make an informed decision about whether a sinus lift is the right option for you.
Schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation appointment with Marielaina Perrone DDS at (702) 458-2929 to start your journey towards a dream smile in Summerlin, Henderson, and Las Vegas, NV. Our team is eager to assist you with your oral health and smile makeover needs.
Author Bio
Dr. Marielaina Perrone is a highly respected and experienced dentist in Henderson, Nevada, with over two decades of expertise in providing quality dental care to her patients. She graduated from Stony Brook University School Of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, and orthodontics.
Dr. Perrone is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry and continuing education to provide the best possible care for her patients.
Dr. Perrone takes a patient-centered approach and believes in personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs and preferences. Her gentle and compassionate demeanor creates a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for patients during their dental appointments.
Aside from dentistry, Dr. Perrone enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking. She also volunteers her time and expertise to various charitable organizations in her community.
