SURGICAL CARE
Sinus Lift
Build bone in the upper back jaw when additional support is needed for dental implant placement.
The maxillary sinuses sit just above the upper back teeth, and after tooth loss in this area, the remaining bone can be too shallow to support a planned implant without additional preparation.
a smile made for you.
SURGICAL DENTISTRY
Sinus Lift at Valencia Dental Office
The maxillary sinuses sit above the upper back teeth. After tooth loss, the available bone in this area may be too shallow for a planned dental implant. A sinus lift gently elevates the sinus membrane and places graft material to create additional bone height.
A sinus lift is specifically about creating the vertical bone height an implant in this location needs — it doesn’t treat the sinus itself or address unrelated sinus conditions.
WHY THIS AREA IS DIFFERENT
Working Around The Sinus Anatomy
- Limited bone heightThe upper back jaw often has less vertical bone available than other areas, especially after tooth loss.
- Sinus proximityThe maxillary sinus sits directly above this area, which requires a specific surgical approach.
- Imaging-guided planningYour sinus anatomy and remaining bone are evaluated with imaging before any procedure is planned.
- A step toward implant placementThis procedure exists specifically to support future implant placement in this location.
THE PROCEDURE
What a Sinus Lift Involves
- Imaging evaluationSinus anatomy and remaining bone are carefully evaluated before the procedure.
- Elevating the sinus membraneThe sinus membrane is gently lifted to create space for graft material.
- Placing graft materialGraft material is placed beneath the elevated membrane to build bone height.
- Timing the implantThe implant may be placed during the same procedure or after the graft has healed, depending on your case.
TWO GENERAL APPROACHES
Matching the Technique to Your Anatomy
The specific surgical approach depends on how much bone height is needed.
Lateral window technique
Used when more significant bone height needs to be added.
Crestal approach
A less invasive technique appropriate for smaller height increases.
Combined with implant placement
Some cases allow the implant to be placed during the same procedure.
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
When to Schedule a Visit
A sinus lift may be recommended when implant planning shows inadequate vertical bone below the sinus. Sinus health, anatomy and medical history are considered before surgery.
- Implant planning has shown inadequate bone height in the upper back jaw
- You have lost teeth in the upper back jaw and are considering implants
- Your dentist has recommended a sinus lift as part of your implant plan
- You want to understand the sequence and timeline before starting treatment
RECOVERY AND NEXT STEPS
What Comes After the Procedure
Healing time before implant placement depends on the extent of grafting and your individual case, which your dentist will outline at your evaluation.
Follow-up visits confirm the graft is healing well and help determine the right timing for the next stage of implant treatment.
Sinus Lift FAQ
- What does sinus lift involve?
- The maxillary sinuses sit above the upper back teeth. After tooth loss, the available bone in this area may be too shallow for a planned dental implant. A sinus lift gently elevates the sinus membrane and places graft material to create additional bone height.
- How do I know whether this treatment is appropriate for me?
- A sinus lift may be recommended when implant planning shows inadequate vertical bone below the sinus. Sinus health, anatomy and medical history are considered before surgery.
- What should I expect from the treatment process?
- Imaging is used to evaluate sinus anatomy and remaining bone. During the procedure, the sinus membrane is carefully elevated and graft material is placed beneath it. The implant may be placed at the same appointment or after graft healing depending on the case.
- Is a sinus lift painful?
- The procedure is performed with anesthesia for comfort, and your dentist will guide you on managing any discomfort during recovery.
- How long until I can get my implant after a sinus lift?
- This depends on the extent of grafting needed; some cases allow placement at the same time, while others require healing first.
- Does a sinus lift affect breathing or sinus function?
- The procedure is focused on bone for implant support; your dentist will discuss anything specific to your anatomy and health history.
- Will I need imaging before this procedure?
- Yes, imaging is used to evaluate your sinus anatomy and remaining bone before any procedure is planned.
- What if I’m not a candidate for a sinus lift?
- Your dentist will discuss alternative approaches to implant placement or other tooth-replacement options.
