What is a Sinus Elevation?

Sinus elevation, also known as sinus life, adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of molars and premolars. The bone is added between the jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are on either side of your nose. The goal of the surgery is to graft enough bone material onto the upper jaw to support the base of a dental implant.

The maxillary sinuses are located behind the cheeks, on top of the upper teeth. Usually, the roots of the upper teeth tend to extend up into these maxillary sinuses. If the upper teeth are removed or fall out, there is just a thin wall of bone separating the sinus from the mouth. So, if you are looking to replace any missing teeth, sinus augmentation might be needed. If your sinus wall is very thin, it could be impossible to place implants into the upper jaw without some type of bone grafting. If bone loss is preventing you from revitalizing your smile, a sinus lift augmentation can raise the sinus floor and promote new bone growth.

To supplement the bone structure and allow for the successful placement of a dental implant, our endodontist may recommend a sinus lift. During this procedure, we gently lift the sinus membrane and push it up and away from the jaw. We then add bone grafting material in the area where the sinus was to add to the bone structure. Schedule your appointment with us today.