A sinus lift is a common procedure for patients who require dental implants to replace the upper molars. Due to the anatomy of the human skull, the sinus cavities are typically located just above the roots of the permanent upper molars. Because the sinus is an opening, or void, in the bone they do not present an ideal environment for placing a dental implant. Prior to beginning the procedure for dental implants in Burnaby, it is critical to identify and address this common anatomic landmark.
When an upper molar tooth is missing, and an implant is to be placed, your implant dentist must first determine if you are eligible for a successful dental implant. Through the use of 2D technology (xrays) or 3D technology (CT Scan) your dentist can visualize the amount of bone available in the selected area. If the sinus appears to be located too closely to the proposed implant, your dentist will recommend a sinus lift.
In preparation for dental implants, the floor or bottom of the sinus is lifted to allow room for the placement of additional bone. In a surgical procedure, your implant dentist can access the floor of the sinus at the site of the proposed implant and gently reposition it slightly higher into the jaw bone. The area where the floor of the sinus was initially located is replaced with bone (either synthetic or cadaver) and allowed to heal.
A fundamental component of the dental implant process is the availability of dense, healthy bone. For patients who are lacking sufficient bone near the upper molars, the sinus lift can greatly increase the success rate of the dental implant.
It is impossible to accurately determine if a sinus lift will be necessary for your dental implant procedure without a comprehensive evaluation. The chances of the sinus lift are more likely if you have naturally large sinuses, a history of periodontal disease or bone loss, or bone loss as a result of missing teeth. To find out if a sinus lift is necessary for your dental implants, contact the office of Dr. Bernard Jin to schedule your consultation today.