Sinus Lift
The maxillary sinus is an air-filled cavity behind your cheekbones. It is lined with a membrane and its floor lies on the roots of the molar and premolar teeth. Sinuses are like empty rooms that have nothing in them. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the maxillary sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, there is often just a thin wall of bone separating the maxillary sinus and the mouth. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place. When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone. The sinus lift procedure, otherwise known as maxillary arthroplasty augmentation, involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor. Once the bone graft heals the greater depth of bone allows implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw.
The sinus graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option other than wearing loose dentures.
If enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant well, sinus augmentations and dental implant placement can sometimes be performed as a single procedure. If not enough bone is available, then the Sinus Augmentation will have to be performed first, then the graft will have to mature for several months before implant placement.
Once the graft has matured, the dental implants can be placed.
WHY Reynolds oral and facial surgery?
Reynolds Oral and Facial Surgery is one of the best oral and facial surgery teams around. With more than 20 years of experience and extensive training, we know what it takes to make sure your procedure runs smoothly. Dr. Reynolds and Dr. Gresehover have a keen eye for detail and strive to make sure to answer any questions you may have. Our team understands that medical procedures can be very nerve-racking experiences which is why we make sure you are comfortable and have the best experience possible. We also invest heavily in the most advanced surgical technology available ensuring you get the best results possible.