When you want to get an implant for a missing tooth, one of the things required is enough bone density. It is necessary so the implant can osseointegrate with the jawbone. When you see your dentist about an implant, he will conduct a test to check for this.
The upper jawbone usually needs a lot of attention since placing an implant there is most difficult. Patients commonly lack sufficient bone mass in the upper jawbone for an implant. Hence, they require a sinus lift to prepare for the implant.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
The sinus cavity is found behind your cheeks and on top of the upper row of teeth. The dentist needs to use a bone graft beneath the sinus cavity to strengthen the upper jawbone for an implant. This procedure will involve the lifting of the sinus membrane.
If you have healthy teeth, the natural roots of your teeth will extend even into the sinus cavity. Tooth loss may cause your jawbone to deteriorate in the sinus cavity. After the bone deteriorates, there may only remain a small amount of tissue separating the sinus cavity and the mouth.
When Will You Need a Sinus Lift?
If the dentist finds that the sinus is too close to the jaw or if you have insufficient bone height, you may need a sinus lift. Some of the causes of bone loss in the jaw are:
Loss of teeth
Periodontitis
When the body reabsorbs bone back into the body after tooth loss
Before the Sinus Lift
Before the sinus lift procedure, the dentist has to find a place to get bone matter. There are common areas in the body where they can source bone matter. It could be bone from your own body, called autogenous bone, or bone from a cadaver, called allogenic bone. The last option is bone from a cow, called a xenograft.
The dentist will take X-rays to help them study your sinus and know how much bone they need.
During the Sinus Lift
The procedure will involve the surgeon cutting through the gum and then cutting a small circle in the bone. Then, they lift the bone graft into the sinus cavity and close the incision. The healing process will take between four to 12 months. It is the ideal time for the bone graft to merge with your existing bone. The time you need to heal will depend on how much bone is required.
After the Sinus Lift
Usually, there is only a bit of discomfort after the sinus lift procedure. You may experience some bleeding from your mouth or nose following the surgery. You may also have some swelling, but it will go away as you heal.
The dentist will advise you to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing often. The best way to prevent sneezing is to avoid anything that may cause it. Blowing your nose and sneezing can cause the bone graft to move or the stitches to open. You will receive prescriptions to help with the pain, protect from infection, and saline spray to keep your nose moist.
For more on sinus lifts, call Marine Park Periodontics & Implantology at (646) 863-4810 to reach our office in Brooklyn, New York.
