Sinus Lift Specialists

What is a sinus lift procedure?

A sinus lift is a type of procedure to add bone to your upper jaw. Generally, the procedure involves adding bone grafting material to an area around your top molars. The bone may be synthetic, or it may come from your own body, from a donor, or from animal sources. 

To create space for this new material, your periodontist shifts the sinus membrane higher, which is how the procedure gets its name. 

When do I need a sinus lift procedure?

You may need a sinus lift procedure if you lose a tooth in your upper jaw. Underneath the tooth’s socket, it's normal to lose bone over time. Periodontal (gum) disease can also lead to bone loss, even if you still have your teeth. 

If you're missing a tooth and have less than 4-6 mm of bone height remaining in the back part of your mouth, you may need a sinus lift to restore bone in that area. Afterward, you'll have enough bone to support a dental implant that holds a replacement tooth. 

How does a sinus lift procedure work?

Before your sinus lift, the team takes x-rays and a 3-D CT scan to find the specific points of bone loss. They use these images to plan your procedure, including carefully avoiding damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Your periodontist provides anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. They create a small incision in your upper gums to reach the jaw. Then, they create a small window in the bone to reach the membrane between your sinus cavity and jawbone. 

Your periodontist lifts the sinus membrane and then inserts bone grafting material. They may add L-PRF ®, a natural regenerative substance made of your own blood platelets, to help stabilize the bone graft and induce new natural bone growth.

With the new bone grafting material in place, your periodontist sutures your gum tissue to finish the procedure. 

How long does it take to heal after a sinus lift?

Healing takes some time because your bone needs to fuse with the newly implanted bone grafting material. On average, you'll have 4-12 months of healing time before you get your new dental implants.

A sinus lift procedure can allow you to get dental implants even if you’re not a candidate at the moment. To learn more about how this procedure can help you restore your oral health, call St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants or request an appointment online.