Sinus Lift
If you’ve been told there isn’t enough bone in your upper jaw for a dental implant, it’s worth it to get a second opinion. A sinus lift builds the bone volume needed to make implant placement possible.
Schedule a ConsultationWhy You Might Need a Sinus Lift
The upper back jaw presents a particular challenge for implant placement. After tooth loss or periodontal disease, the jawbone in that area tends to diminish over time. The sinus cavity, which sits just above, can gradually expand downward as that bone recedes — leaving insufficient height to anchor an implant securely.
A sinus lift addresses this directly. By gently elevating the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath the sinus floor, the procedure creates the foundation an implant needs to integrate and hold long term.
How the Procedure Works
The surgery is performed with precision and care. A small access point is carefully created through the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. From there, your oral surgeon will gently lift the sinus membrane and add the bone grafting material to the space created beneath it. The site is then closed and left alone to heal.
In most cases, the graft requires four to twelve months to fully integrate with the jawbone before implant placement can proceed. In select situations, implants may be placed at the same time as the sinus lift, depending on the amount of existing bone available at the outset.
Are You a Candidate?
Candidacy for a sinus lift is determined by your surgeon during the initial evaluation. They will use CBCT imaging and X-rays to assess the structure of your sinuses and the density of your existing bone. They will also review your overall health, the degree of bone loss present, and your intended timeline for implant placement before recommending a specific approach.
Not every patient with bone loss in the upper jaw requires a sinus lift. Some cases can be addressed with standard bone grafting. Your surgeon will determine the most appropriate path based on what the imaging shows.
What a Sinus Lift Makes Possible
Beyond enabling implant placement, a sinus lift helps to halt ongoing bone deterioration in the upper jaw. Preserving that bone supports the structural integrity of the face over time and creates a more stable, natural-looking result once the implant and final restoration are in place. For patients who have been living with missing upper back teeth, it can be the procedure that makes a lasting smile solution achievable.
The Right Foundation Changes Everything
Bone loss doesn’t have to stop you from getting dental implants. With the right preparation and a skilled surgical team, the outcome you’re desiring is still within reach. Schedule a consultation today to find out whether a sinus lift is the right step in your treatment plan.
Schedule a ConsultationCommon Questions About Sinus Lift Surgery
Most patients are surprised by how manageable the recovery is. Sedation and local anesthesia are used during the procedure to minimize discomfort, and your surgeon will provide clear post-operative instructions to support healing. Some swelling and congestion in the days following surgery are normal and expected. Most people find the experience well within what they anticipated.
Initial recovery typically takes one to two weeks, during which you’ll be advised to avoid blowing your nose or any activity that increases sinus pressure. Full integration of the bone graft — the phase that precedes implant placement — takes several months. Your surgeon will monitor your progress with imaging and confirm when you’re ready to move forward.
In some cases, yes. When there is sufficient existing bone to provide initial implant stability, your surgeon may recommend placing the implant during the same procedure as the sinus lift. This isn’t appropriate for everyone, however. Your imaging and bone assessment will determine whether a staged approach or a combined procedure is the right call for your specific situation.
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