What Is Sinus Augmentation?
Sinus lift surgery, or sinus augmentation, is a common bone grafting oral surgery procedure performed on the upper jaw in order to increase the amount of bone between the maxillary sinuses and the jaw so that dental implants can be successfully placed. Oral surgeons frequently utilize sinus lift surgery to augment the jawbone because the upper jaw is often deficient in bone quality and quantity.
Sinus lift surgery – also known as sinus augmentation – can help correct this problem by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants. Several techniques can be used to raise the sinus and allow for new bone to form.
In one common technique, an incision is made in the gum to expose the bone. Then a small circle is cut into the bone. This bony piece is lifted into the sinus cavity, much like a trap door, and the space underneath is filled with bone graft material. Dr. Maher Albouz can explain your options for bone graft materials, which can regenerate lost bone and tissue.
Finally, the incision is closed and healing is allowed to take place. Depending on your individual needs, the bone usually will be allowed to develop for from four to 12 months before implants can be placed. After the implants are placed, an additional healing period is required. In some cases, however, the implant can be placed at the same time the sinus is augmented.
Undergoing sinus lift surgery has been shown to greatly increase the chances for successful implants that can last for years to come. Many patients experience minimal discomfort during this procedure.
Common Reasons for Having Sinus Lift Surgery
Sinus lift surgery is used in cases where the upper jawbone height is insufficient or the sinuses are too close to the jaw to place dental implants. Jawbone anatomy is such that the upper jaw naturally has less bone than the lower jaw. Some sinus lift patients simply have a smaller jawbone while others have jawbone loss. Sinus augmentation provides a strong bony foundation by bone grafting for dental implants.
Factors which can contribute to jawbone loss include:
- Tooth loss: Extraction or missing teeth eventually lead to bone resorption (absorption back into the body) if the space is left vacant.
- Periodontal disease: Gum disease can cause bone loss if left untreated.
- Oral pathology: Cysts or tumors can damage the jawbone.
A toothless, or edentulous, area is known as a ridge. The collapse of the tooth socket, together with an expansion of the maxillary sinus floor (which occurs when a molar is lost), causes the jawbone to thin out, resulting in less volume available for the dental implant.
Physiological factors which can necessitate sinus lift surgery include:
- Small jaw
- Location of the sinuses, blood vessels, and nerves
- Large sinus (can enlarge with age)
- Proximity of adjacent teeth roots
Recovery From Sinus Lift Surgery
Your recovery time will depend on the type of sinus lift surgery you undergo. Other than avoidance of strenuous activities, most patients do not have any major limitations. You may experience some swelling around the surgical site and light bleeding from the nose or mouth. Most patients have little discomfort after their sinus lift procedure.
Your surgeon will prescribe medication, which may include:
- Antibiotics and antimicrobial mouthwash: To prevent infection
- Pain medicine: To alleviate any discomfort
- Decongestants or saline spray: To keep nose clear and moist
- Anti-inflammatories: To reduce swelling
Dr. Albouz will provide detailed post-operative instructions after your sinus lift surgery.
