A Sinus Lift Prepares the Upper Jaw for Dental Implants
Replacing teeth in the upper posterior jaw with dental implants can be difficult, because of their close proximity to the sinuses. If there is not enough space between the sinus floor and the jaw, a sinus lift procedure can restore candidacy for implant placement. During treatment, the sinus membrane is lifted and bone tissue is added to the upper jaw, creating a strong foundation for implant posts. Dr. Art Carpenter and his team in Kenilworth, IL, can perform sinus lifts as well as other preparatory procedures to improve implant candidacy.
When is a Sinus Lift Necessary?
When there is not sufficient bone height in the upper jaw or the sinuses are too close to the jawbone, there is an increased risk that an implant will interfere with the soft tissues of the sinus membrane. There are several reasons Dr. Carpenter may recommend a sinus lift procedure. The most common concern is insufficient bone tissue in the implant area. The back of the upper jaw has less bone than the lower jaw, so even without bone loss, it is a difficult area in which to place implants. Both tooth loss and gum disease can cause jawbone tissue to deteriorate, especially if missing teeth were left untreated for a long period of time. This can add to the complexity of implantation.
Once your dental implants are in place, they can prevent further bone atrophy and provide a lifetime of benefits.
Another issue that may warrant treatment is maxillary sinus crowding. The shape and size of the maxillary sinus varies from person to person, and can become larger as you age. It may also expand when tooth loss causes bone deterioration, growing to fill the space in the jaw. In each of these scenarios, a sinus lift procedure can restore dental implant candidacy.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before your sinus lift, you may need x-rays so Dr. Carpenter can analyze the anatomy of your jaw and sinuses. We may also request a computed tomography (CT) scan to measure the height and width of your existing bone and evaluate the health of your sinus. Using this technology, Dr. Carpenter can precisely plan your treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.
What to Expect
Dr. Carpenter can make an incision in the gum tissue in the upper back jaw to expose the bone. He can then create a small, oval-shaped window in the bone and gently push the sinus membrane up and away from your jaw. Dr. Carpenter can pack the space with bone grafting material, after which he can close the incisions with sutures. It typically takes four to nine months for the grafted material to fuse sufficiently with your bone before implants can be placed. This will extend your overall treatment timeline. However, once your implants are in place, they can prevent further bone atrophy and provide a lifetime of benefits.
A Stable Foundation
When bone loss or sinus crowding threatens the success of your dental implants treatment, preparatory procedures like sinus lifts and bone grafts can restore your candidacy. Contact our office online or call (847) 251-5004 to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of implant treatment with Dr. Carpenter.
