Sinus Lift in Winston-Salem, NC

What Happens During a Sinus Lift Procedure?

A sinus lift—sometimes referred to as a sinus augmentation—is a procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw by lifting the sinus membrane. It’s often necessary when the bone in the back of the upper jaw, near the molars and premolars, isn’t thick enough to anchor dental implants. This condition can arise from bone loss caused by missing teeth, gum disease, or the natural positioning of the sinus cavity.

In a sinus lift procedure, bone graft material is placed near the upper premolars or molars to enhance the height and density of the jawbone. Over time, this graft integrates with your natural bone, forming a solid base to securely support Implant-based dental solutions.

Why Is a Sinus Lift Necessary?

A sinus lift is often required when the sinus cavity is too close to the jawbone to support a dental implant. This can happen for several reasons:

• Bone Loss: Gradual bone deterioration in the upper jaw often follows tooth loss, reducing the bone density needed to properly support dental implants.
• Sinus Expansion: The sinuses naturally expand with age, leaving less bone for implants.
• Tooth Extraction: After tooth loss, the bone surrounding the missing tooth can shrink, creating an insufficient amount of bone for implants.

In these cases, a sinus lift provides additional bone material that supports dental implants and ensures a successful, lasting restoration. It’s often recommended by a periodontist when the bone quality or quantity is not adequate.

How the Sinus Lift Procedure Works

At Encore Dental Studio, we prioritize your comfort and safety during every procedure. Here's what you can expect during a sinus lift:

Consultation and Assessment

Before performing the sinus lift, our experienced team will conduct a thorough evaluation, which includes digital X-rays or 3D imaging to assess your bone structure and sinus cavity. This helps us determine if a sinus lift is necessary and the best approach for your specific case.

Anesthesia and Sedation

To ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure, we offer local anesthesia and sedation dentistry options. This ensures that you will feel relaxed and pain-free during the sinus lift.

The Surgical Procedure

In a sinus lift procedure, a minor incision is made in the gum to expose the bone in the upper jaw. A small window is then carefully opened in the bone to reach the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane is gently raised, and bone graft material is placed into the space created. Once the graft is in position, the gum tissue is stitched closed to allow healing to begin.

Healing and Bone Integration

The bone graft will gradually fuse with your natural bone over the next few months. During this healing period, you may need to wait several months (typically 4–12 months) before dental implants can be placed. We will monitor your healing progress to ensure that the graft integrates well with your bone.

Placement of Dental Implants

Once your sinus lift has fully healed and the bone has integrated, you will be ready for dental implant placement. A follow-up procedure will be scheduled to place the implants securely in the newly grafted bone.

Benefits of Sinus Augmentation Surgery

A sinus lift offers several key benefits, particularly for those looking to restore their smile with dental implants:

• Improved Bone Structure: The procedure adds height to the upper jawbone, providing a solid and reliable foundation for placing dental implants.
• Better Implant Outcomes: By supplying the bone needed for integration, a sinus lift boosts the likelihood of successful implant attachment.
• Reduces Additional Bone Loss: Rebuilding the upper jawbone helps preserve facial structure and minimizes future bone deterioration.
• Improves Smile Function and Appearance: Sinus lift surgery allows for implant placement that restores both chewing ability and the natural look of your smile. Many individuals also consider cosmetic dentistry treatments afterward for even greater aesthetic results.

What to Expect After a Sinus Lift

Recovery after a sinus lift is generally smooth, and most patients experience only mild discomfort. Here's what to expect during your recovery:

• Swelling and Bruising: It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising around the surgical site. Applying ice and following post-operative instructions will help manage this.
• Mild Discomfort: Pain after the procedure can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. If necessary, we will prescribe stronger pain relief.
• Dietary Restrictions: We recommend a soft diet for a few days to avoid disturbing the surgical site.
• Follow-Up Visits: You’ll have follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and ensure that the graft is integrating correctly.
  

If you experience sudden pain or swelling, our emergency dental team is here to provide prompt attention and care.

Why Choose Encore Dental Studio for Your Sinus Lift?

At Encore Dental Studio, we are committed to providing the highest quality care for our patients. Here’s why you should trust us for your sinus lift procedure:

• Experienced Experts: Our team of dental professionals has extensive training in sinus lift procedures and other advanced treatments, ensuring reliable and skilled care.
• Modern Technology: We use state-of-the-art tools and the latest techniques to perform sinus lifts with precision and efficiency.
• Focus on Comfort: We offer sedation dentistry and tailored care to help you feel calm, comfortable, and at ease throughout the process.
• Comprehensive Support: From your initial exam to your final implant placement, we handle every stage of your treatment for a seamless and effective outcome.

How Long Does a Sinus Lift Take?

The sinus lift procedure itself typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. However, the healing time after the surgery is more extensive. It may take anywhere from 4 to 12 months for the bone graft to integrate with your natural bone before dental implants can be placed. Your dentist will guide you through the timeline and keep you informed of your progress.