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Sinus Lifts at Ivanhoe Dental Group

We at Ivanhoe Dental Group put together this page to provide detailed information on sinus lifts. You will find out what they are, who can benefit from them and what to expect before, during and after treatment. Our practice in Riverdale, Illinois is led by a team of experienced dentists including Dr. Salem and Dr. Shah. Our team will take the utmost care to ensure you get the result you desire and keep you comfortable and informed along the way.

A woman is smiling while sitting in a dental chair.

What is a Sinus Lift?

The sinus lift is also known as sinus augmentation or sinus elevation. It is a dental procedure that increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw. This is done in the back area of the mouth, where the upper molars are anchored. This surgery is required when the upper jaw lacks sufficient bone thickness to support dental implants.


Understanding Sinus Anatomy 

Before diving into the details of a sinus lift, it is essential to understand the anatomy of the maxillary sinus. The maxillary cavities are located above and behind the upper teeth. They contain air. These sinuses are vital to the respiratory system. They filter, humidify, and warm air.

What Are the Reasons for a Sinus Lift?

Insufficient bone volume can be caused by several factors, including:


  • Tooth Loss: If teeth are lost from this area of the upper jaw, the bone surrounding the teeth roots may break down and diminish over time due to the lack of stimulation.


  • Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can cause infection to get into the bone, which compromises the structure and density of bone tissue in the jaw.


  • Injury or Trauma: A facial injury or trauma to the upper jaw may result in bone damage or bone loss, which can affect the stability of the jawbone and its suitability for dental implants.


  • Anatomical Variation: Some people have naturally thinner or less dense bones in the upper jaw. This makes it difficult to support dental implants without additional bone augmentation.

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The Procedure of a Sinus Lift:

There are several steps to the sinus lift, each of which is vital to ensuring the desired result. This is what to expect when getting a sinus lift:

  • Assessment and Preparation

    Your dentist will perform a thorough assessment of your dental health before the sinus lift. This may include dental imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans. These diagnostic images allow your dentist to assess the condition of the jawbone and sinus anatomy.

  • Anesthesia and Sedation

    Local anesthesia will be administered before the procedure to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the entire surgery. You may also be given additional sedation such as intravenous (IV) sedation or oral sedation, depending on your preference and the complexity and severity of your case.

  • Incision and Access

    After you have been sufficiently numbed and relaxed, the dentist will make a tiny incision near the upper molars (or premolars). This incision allows access to the bone and sinus membrane beneath, which is necessary for the sinus lifting procedure.

  • Elevation of the Sinus Membrane

    Your dentist will use precise surgical tools and techniques to carefully lift the membrane of the sinus upwards, creating a space between the sinuses and the jawbone beneath. This elevation of the sinus membrane allows the placement of bone graft material to increase the height of the upper jaw.

  • Bone Graft Placement

    After the sinus membrane is elevated, the bone graft material will be placed in the space created between the sinus floor and jawbone. The bone graft acts as a scaffold for new bone growth. It promotes the integration of new tissue and strengthens the jawbone over time.

  • Healing and Closure

    The incision made in the gum tissue must be carefully closed using sutures after the bone graft has been implanted. These sutures are used to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection. The bone graft will gradually integrate into the jawbone over the following few weeks or months through a procedure called osseointegration. This provides a stable base for the dental implant.

  • Post-Operative Care

    Your dentist will give you detailed instructions following the sinus lift to ensure optimal healing and recovery. These may include pain management recommendations, oral hygiene tips, dietary changes, and follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

  • Dental Implant Placement (Optional)

    Dental implants can be placed on the augmented upper jaw once the bone volume is sufficient and the healing process has been completed. These implants act as artificial roots that anchor prosthetic teeth, such as bridges, dentures, or crowns, securely in place. They also restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.

Benefits of Sinus Lifts

The sinus lift is a great option for patients who are seeking dental implants in the upper posterior (back) area of the jawbone. This specialized procedure is designed to help individuals with low bone volume enjoy the benefits that dental implants can provide. They also get a functional, healthy smile. Here are some of the main benefits of sinus lifts.

  • Facilitating Dental Implant Placement

    The ability of sinus lifts to enable successful dental implant placement in areas with low bone height is one of their primary benefits. Patients who previously were not eligible for dental implant treatment because of bone loss are now able to get the treatment they desire.

  • Restoring Bone Volume

    Sinus lifts can help restore bone density and volume in the upper posterior jaw that may have been lost due to tooth loss, periodontal diseases or anatomical changes. Sinus lifts improve the bone structure and provide a stable foundation for dental implant placement.

  • Improving Oral Function

    Patients can improve their oral health and function with dental implants and sinus lifts. Dental implants that are anchored into the jawbone offer exceptional stability and comfort. This allows for a more natural experience when chewing and talking.

  • Maintaining Facial Structure

    Losing teeth in the upper posterior jaw can cause bone deterioration and facial changes over time. By restoring missing teeth using dental implants and improving the volume of the jawbone, patients can maintain the integrity of the facial structure and prevent further loss.

  • Boost to Confidence and Self-Esteem

    It is important to be able to speak, eat and smile with confidence. These procedures will improve your overall quality of life and well-being. Dental implants and sinus lifts can improve the self-esteem and confidence of patients by offering a permanent solution to tooth replacement. These  treatments allow patients to eat the foods they love, speak clearly and smile confidently, improving their social interactions.

  • Long-Term Durability and Reliability

    Dental implants and sinus lifts offer patients a long-lasting solution to tooth replacement. Dental implants, with proper maintenance and care, can last many years, or even for a lifetime. They are a great investment in your oral health and quality of life.

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Ivanhoe Dental Group Offers Superior Care

Our team of highly skilled dentists is committed to delivering superior care, personalized treatment solutions and meeting the individual needs of every patient. You can count on us to provide exceptional results, whether you need a dental implant, a sinus lift, or any other advanced dental procedure.

Book Your Sinus Lift Consultation Now!

Are you ready to learn more about your options for restoring the integrity of your jawbone and achieving a functional, healthy smile through a sinus lift procedure? Call Ivanhoe Dental Group to set up a consultation today with one of our dentists. We will assess your oral health and discuss your treatment goals. A personalized plan will be developed to help you achieve optimal aesthetics and function. Do not let insufficient bone volume prevent you from enjoying dental implants. Schedule your consultation for a sinus lift today!

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