Sinus Lift Procedure: Regaining Your Smile with Dental Implants in the UK
28/03/2024
Missing teeth can impact not just your smile but also your ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly. Dental implants offer a fantastic solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a natural-looking and stable foundation for crowns or dentures.
However, sometimes placing dental implants in the upper jaw can be tricky due to the proximity to the sinus cavity. This is where a sinus lift procedure comes in. Here at Silk Dental we understand the importance of a complete and healthy smile, and we’re here to explain how a sinus lift can help you achieve just that.
What is a Sinus Lift?
The sinus cavity is an air-filled space located above your upper jawbone. When teeth in the upper back jaw (molars and premolars) are missing for an extended period, the jawbone can deteriorate. This bone loss can leave insufficient bone volume for placing a dental implant securely.
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that augments the bone volume in the upper jaw by carefully lifting the sinus membrane upwards. This creates additional space for bone grafting material to be placed beneath the membrane. Over time, the bone graft integrates with your existing jawbone, creating a strong foundation for dental implant placement.
Why is a Sinus Lift Needed?
Dental implants require sufficient jawbone density and volume for successful placement and long-term stability. Without enough bone support, the implant may not integrate properly and could fail. A sinus lift is necessary when the upper jawbone has shrunk due to missing teeth, making it unsuitable for implant placement without additional bone support.
What to Expect During a Sinus Lift Procedure
A sinus lift is typically performed by an experienced oral surgeon or a dentist with advanced training in implant dentistry. The procedure itself is often done under local anesthesia with sedation dentistry as an option for increased comfort. Here’s a general outline of the steps involved:
- An incision is made in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone.
- A small opening is carefully created in the sinus membrane and gently lifted upwards.
- Bone grafting material is placed beneath the membrane in the empty space.
- The surgical site is stitched closed, and a healing cap is placed over the implant site (if the implant is placed simultaneously).
Recovery After a Sinus Lift
Following the procedure, you can expect some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with medication. Your dentist will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing. It typically takes several months for the bone graft to integrate fully before the dental implant can be placed but sometimes can be placed at the same time.
Benefits of a Sinus Lift
A successful sinus lift offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enables dental implant placement in the upper jaw, even with bone loss.
- Provides a strong and stable foundation for dental implants.
- Supports long-term success and function of dental implants.
- Improves aesthetics and functionality of your smile.
Considering Dental Implants with a Sinus Lift?
If you’re missing teeth in the upper jaw and considering dental implants, a consultation with a dentist experienced in implant dentistry is crucial. They will assess your individual situation, determine if a sinus lift is necessary, and discuss the entire treatment process in detail.
At Silk Dental , our team is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care, including advanced procedures like sinus lifts and dental implant placement. We understand that every patient is unique, and we strive to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the possibilities of regaining your smile with dental implants!
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