Sinus Lift in Albuquerque, NM

Rio Grande Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center provides sinus lifts in Albuquerque, NM. Call 505-821-2111 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation, is a bone graft procedure that enhances the back of the upper jawbone in preparation for dental implants. This bone, which sits just below the sinus cavity, is often thin, especially in patients teeth due to tooth loss or bone loss from missing molars or premolars for some time. In addition, the maxillary sinus cavities are simply larger in some people than in others. As the name implies, the sinus membrane must be gently lifted out of the way of the bone graft.

We will take X-rays and CT scans to examine the anatomy of your jaw and sinus, including the height and width of your jawbone and the health of your sinuses. If you have seasonal allergies, let us know. It is best to perform a sinus lift when your allergies are not actively bothering you.

We will cut back the gum tissue, exposing the bone, and then open a small hole in the bone. This allows us to access the sinus membrane on the other side of the hole, which we will gently push up and away from your jaw. We will then pack the space below the membrane with granules of bone-graft material and close your tissue with sutures.

You may have some swelling, which can be controlled with ice packs. You may also experience mild bleeding from your mouth or nose. Be careful not to sneeze forcefully or blow your nose, as this could cause the grafting material to shift. We will prescribe a saline spray for your nose, medication to prevent inflammation and congestion, an antimicrobial mouthwash, an antibiotic, and perhaps a pain reliever. Most patients experience little discomfort, which resolves within a few days.

We will see you for a follow-up appointment in 7 to 10 days to evaluate your healing. Depending on your progress, we might see you a few more times over the next few months to track your healing. Bone heals slowly, so you will need to wait at least four months to have your dental implants placed.

Sinus lifts have an excellent success rate, but all surgeries carry some risks. Call us right away if you have bright red, continuous bleeding, worsening pain or swelling after the first two days, or a fever, or if you think you have dislodged the bone-graft material.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sinus Lifts

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed beneath it to create adequate bone volume for dental implant placement.

Why might I need a sinus lift procedure?

You may need a sinus lift if you've experienced bone loss in your upper back teeth area. Tooth loss can cause the jawbone to deteriorate over time, leaving insufficient bone to support dental implants. The procedure helps ensure there is enough bone for successful implant treatment.

How does tooth loss affect my jaw?

When you lose teeth, the bone that once supported the tooth roots begins to deteriorate. This bone loss can affect the function and appearance of your jaw and bite. Without adequate bone, replacing missing teeth with implants becomes challenging.

What are the benefits of a sinus lift?

The primary benefits include the ability to replace missing teeth with dental implants, which improve both function and appearance. Implants help maintain bone volume, support your facial structure, and restore your ability to chew comfortably.

How is bone grafting material used in the procedure?

During the sinus lift procedure, we open a small window in the bone and gently push the sinus membrane upward. The space below is then filled with bone grafting material, which integrates with your natural bone over time through a process called osseointegration.

Are you looking for an oral surgeon in Albuquerque, NM? Call Rio Grande Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center today at 505-821-2111 to schedule your first appointment.