You’ve made the life-changing decision to get dental implants for missing teeth in your upper jaw, but you’ve been told that you don’t have sufficient bone density. What now? For some patients, the Indian Land restorative dentist at Arches Dental Care recommends a sinus lift. This procedure can help restore bone density for implants in the upper arch of teeth. Learn about the signs a sinus lift might be right for you.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
This surgical procedure, also called a sinus augmentation, increases the amount of bone in your upper jaw, specifically in the area of the molars and premolars. During surgery, we gently lift the sinus membrane upward in your maxillary sinuses—the ones in your cheeks, under your eyes. We then fill the space left behind with added bone material.
1. Insufficient Bone Height in the Upper Jaw
One of the primary reasons you may need a sinus lift is if you don’t have sufficient bone height in your upper jaw. When the bone in the area of your upper molars and premolars is too thin or not dense enough, it may not be able to support dental implants. This can occur due to natural bone loss over time, but it’s especially common after tooth loss.
One 2019 study reports that you can lose half of your bone width in the first year after tooth extraction. An estimated 30% of that loss happens in just 12 weeks after losing a tooth. If you’ve lost a tooth in this area and are considering implants, a sinus lift may be necessary to ensure a stable foundation.
2. Proximity of Sinuses to the Jaw
The anatomical structure of your sinuses can also play a role in determining if you need a sinus lift. In some people, the sinuses are naturally closer to the upper jaw, leaving less room for dental implants. This proximity can make it challenging to place implants without risking sinus complications.
We perform a thorough dental evaluation at Arches Dental Care, often involving imaging technology like X-rays and CBCT scans. Our Indian Land restorative dentist can use these scans to assess the position of your sinuses in relation to your jawbone. If they’re too close, we may recommend a sinus lift to create enough space to safely place your implants.
3. Previous Gum Disease
A history of periodontal disease can lead to significant bone loss in the upper jaw, affecting the amount of bone available for dental implants. This is because advanced gum disease can actually eat away at the bone supporting your teeth.
A sinus lift can restore enough bone volume for successful implant placement. If you’ve experienced gum disease, our Indian Land restorative dentist will evaluate the extent of your bone loss and discuss whether a sinus lift is appropriate for your situation.
4. Plans for Multiple Implants
Planning to get multiple dental implants in the upper jaw can increase the likelihood of needing a sinus lift. As you can expect, having several implants placed in your jaw can cause a lot of stress on the bone. You need sufficient bone support, which might not naturally exist if your sinus cavities are large or you’ve lost bone density. In these cases, a sinus lift can provide the necessary structural integrity to support multiple implants, ensuring longevity and functionality.
Explore Sinus Lift Eligibility with a Consultation
Taking steps to understand your dental needs can greatly impact the success of your treatment. If you suspect you might need a sinus lift or are planning on getting dental implants, discuss your options with our Indian Land restorative dentist. Contact Arches Dental Care today to schedule a consultation and explore how we can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
