Are you ready to invest in the benefits of dental implants? You’re making a wise decision for your overall wellness and quality of life. However, your dentist has informed you that you’ll need a sinus lift before getting dental implants. Don’t worry. About 20% of people who get dental implants will also require a sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation. A bone graft is often used along with a sinus lift. Here’s how the additional procedures will ensure the success of your dental implants.
How a Dental Implant Works
A dental implant is unique because it is the only treatment to mimic both the tooth root and the crown. A titanium implant post is surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a new tooth root. It will provide unmatched support and stability for your restoration, which is attached using an abutment. Your jaw must fuse to the implant through a process called osseointegration.
Bone loss can cause osseointegration to fail. As a result, you may need a sinus lift and bone grafting to ensure your dental implants have the foundation they need to succeed.
When is a Sinus Lift Necessary?
Losing a tooth causes your jawbone to deteriorate slowly. You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year of missing a tooth, which will continue to shrink as time passes. Therefore, there may not be enough bone to place implants in the upper arch without them protruding into the maxillary sinuses, which are located on either side of your nose. A sinus lift raises the sinuses and adds bone to the upper arch to ensure dental implants can be placed successfully.
What to Expect with a Sinus Lift
While under sedation or anesthesia, an oral surgeon will open your gum tissue and create a small hole in your bone. They will lift the sinuses and place a bone graft in the hole to hold it in place. It will take several months for your bone graft to heal, which is necessary before you can move on to the next step of your treatment plan. After sufficient healing has occurred, you will be scheduled for your placement surgery.
Although a sinus lift may add another step to your treatment plan, it is time well-spent. When all steps are completed, you’ll benefit from a tooth loss solution that can last for 30 years or more. You’ll have the next best thing to your real teeth using the latest innovations in dentistry.
About Dr. Kyle Sharp
Dr. Sharp earned his dental degree at the Texas A&M School of Dentistry. He strives to go the extra mile when providing care for his patients. He regularly continues his education to provide the latest solutions in dentistry, including dental implants. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (479) 648-9988.