The maxillary sinuses are behind your cheeks, on top of the upper teeth. Sinuses are like empty rooms that have nothing in them. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, often just a thin wall of bone separating the sinus and the mouth remains. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place. When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone.
A procedure called a Sinus Graft or “Lift” allows Dr. Wolf to enter the sinus from where the upper teeth used to be. With sedation and local anesthetic, the sinus membrane is lifted upward and bone is inserted repositioning it to a healthy and acceptable height. Keep in mind that the floor of the sinus is the roof of the upper jaw. After several months of healing, the bone heals and dental implants can be inserted and stabilized in this new bone.
The sinus graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option other than wearing loose dentures.
In some cases, if enough bone between the upper jaw and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant, sinus augmentations and implant placement can be performed as a single procedure.
After your procedure, bed rest is recommended for one day and limited physical activity for 2-3 days to allow the gum to heal and minimize bleeding. You may feel sore, in the area of surgery, for a few days. Pain is not usually reported by our patients. Following post operative instructions is critical for success and for a positive experience.