Index
1. What is sinus lift?
2. Why is it performed?
3. What does it consist of?
4. Preparation for maxillary sinus lift
5. Care after the procedure
6. Alternatives to this treatment
What is sinus lift?
Maxillary sinus lift is a surgical technique performed in dental implantology in patients who do not have good bone availability. Its objective is to vertically increase the bone and, therefore, later replace the dental pieces by means of implant surgery.
It is usually performed in the molar and premolar areas of the upper jaw and is carried out prior to implant placement.
Maxillary sinus lift vertically augments the bone.
Why is it performed?
This procedure increases the amount of vertical bone, thus allowing the placement of dental implants in those patients who do not have sufficient height and bone volume in the upper jaw.
The sinus lift is performed in people who, for various reasons, have a significant bone loss, which prevents the attachment of implants.
What does it consist of?
Maxillary sinus lift is a predictable and effective technique, although a specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery must examine the patient’s case to decide the most appropriate treatment.
The procedure consists of lifting the membrane that covers the bone of the affected maxillary area and placing the dental bone graft in the space between the bone and the membrane. On some occasions, dental implants can be placed in the same intervention in which the sinus lift is performed.
Preparation for maxillary sinus lift
It is a safe and painless technique, so there is no need for a specific preoperative period. The sinus lift is performed under local anesthesia.
Care after the procedure
The postoperative period is not usually painful, although swelling or hematoma may occur in the area of the maxilla that has been operated on. However, these symptoms tend to disappear within 7-10 days after the operation.
Alternatives to this treatment
Other options are the use of short implants, which are placed in the bone under the maxillary sinus membrane. A specialist should be consulted to prepare a personalized treatment plan.