To understand how a sinus lift works, you must know a little about the anatomy of the sinuses.
There are four pairs of sinuses.
The largest are the maxillary sinuses, located under your eyes and next to each side of the nose.
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Some of your upper teeth have roots that can extend into the bottom of the maxillary sinuses.
Dental implantsrequire bone to hold them in place.
This is accomplished through a surgical procedure called a sinus lift.
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What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift involves grafting bone into the floor of the maxillary sinus so dental implants can be attached.
A circle of the bone is cut out and lifted into the sinus cavity.
The remaining space is then filled with a bone graft, and the incision is closed.
After about four to 12 months of healing, a dental implant can then be placed in this area.
Open sinus lifting is the surgical technique most commonly used.
Another advantage is that this technique allows the surgeon to visualize all of the structures they are working on.
A major disadvantage is the number of incisions.
Closed Sinus Lift
During a closed sinus lift, no incisions are made in the gums.
The entire procedure is performed through a single hole in which the dental implant will eventually be inserted.
A closed sinus lift can only be performed if your residual bone height is at least 45 millimeters.
Most sinus lifts are done underlocal anesthesia.
Some healthcare providers may prescribe medications to be taken shortlybeforesurgery (such as an antibiotic).
If this is the case, ensure you follow these instructions precisely.
You will likely be asked to fill out paperwork and answer some questions upon arrival at your appointment.
You may be asked to remove contact lenses, metal jewelry, or dental appliances.
Local anesthetic usually lasts several hours.
Some people are also given a sedative.
In that case, be sure to arrange for someone else to drive you home.
After surgery, you may be monitored for a brief period.
You may be sent home with several prescriptions.
Your healthcare provider may instruct you to use ice packs to keep swelling down.
You will probably need to keep your head elevated while sleeping for a few nights to help with this.
Some people may experience bruising around the surgical site.
verify you know how much bleeding and swelling is too much and when you should notify your surgeon.
Heavy lifting or strenuous activities may increase bleeding.
Your healthcare provider should give you instructions on specific activities to avoid.
You will likely need to follow a special diet for a brief time following your sinus lift.
Typically you’re able to start drinking liquids and then progress to soft foods.
This is because these activities affect the pressure in your sinuses.
No long-term care should be needed related to the actual sinus lift after healing occurs.
Summary
A sinus lift is a common surgical procedure in preparation for dental implant insertion.
A sinus lift is done in a same-day surgery setting and typically under a local anesthetic.
While uncommon, risks may include failure of the bone graft, sinusitis, or sinus membrane perforation.
A Word From Verywell
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