What is a Sinus Lift?
Sometimes, when a tooth is no longer viable, the only way to treat it is to remove it altogether. Tooth extraction can sometimes bring some complications. For example, having one of your upper teeth removed may sometimes cause the sinuses to drop. This sinus expansion results in insufficient space to anchor a dental implant in place, making dental restoration challenging.
This problem can be addressed through a standard oral surgical procedure called the sinus lift, In which, your doctor will move the sinus back up into its proper position. This procedure typically involves the addition of new bone tissue to the upper jaw, creating a solid anchor for dental implants.
At Burbank Periodontics, we see many patients who require a sinus lift following their tooth extraction. This safe and common procedure can prepare you for a fully restored smile. We are pleased to offer patients sinus lifts and bone grafts throughout the Burbank, CA area.
What Can I Expect?
During your consultation, your doctor will perform a physical examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Additionally, your doctor will need to review medical imaging, specifically a CT scan, which is taken with our cone beam CT scanner.
At Burbank Periodontics, we are passionate about patient education. Our doctors will spend as much time as needed to outline the procedure, let you know what you can expect, and answer any questions about the sinus lift. You will also receive information about the different sedation options available. For sinus graft patients, we can offer oral and IV sedation, as well as nitrous oxide, depending on your preference and anxiety level.
During the procedure itself, your doctor will make a small incision, allowing them to raise the sinus and add a bone graft as needed. Once the procedure is over, and your sedation wears off, some mild discomfort is normal. Most patients can manage this discomfort with ibuprofen and other over-the-counter pain remedies.
We place implants during the same appointment as the sinus lift whenever possible. For some patients, it may be necessary to wait a few months for the bone graft to heal in place.
The Results
Sinus lift procedures are safe and often necessary for your overall health. Having a sinus lift may be required to prepare for full dental restoration and, ultimately, to enjoy the lifelong benefits of dental implants.
To find out more about having a sinus lift performed, schedule a consultation with Burbank Periodontics at (818) 842-6162.
