Create a Stable Foundation for Your Implants

Dentist in Irving, TX

Placing dental implants in the upper jaw presents a unique set of challenges. The proximity to the sinuses, as well as insufficient bone tissue in the area, can make implant placement surgery complicated. If you have been told you do not qualify for dental implants in your upper jaw, a sinus lift may restore your candidacy for the procedure.

At Kids and Grownups Dental in Irving, TX, Dr. John Lee can perform this procedure to gently raise your sinus floor and add density to the jaw for a stronger implant base.

A sinus lift can create space in your upper jaw to accommodate dental implants.

Why Do I Need a Sinus Lift?

In general, the back of the upper jaw has less bone tissue than the lower jaw. As such, the sinuses often rest directly on top of tooth roots. Additionally, when teeth are lost, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate and cause the sinuses to expand. In these cases, a sinus lift can create sufficient space between the sinus floor and the jaw for implant placement.

Dr. Lee and our team can determine if you are a good candidate for a sinus lift during your initial implant treatment appointment. We will take a series of scans and x-rays to assess the density of your jawbone, as well as the location of your sinuses, and see if a sinus lift, or other bone graft procedure, is right for you. Keep in mind that while a sinus lift will increase the length of your dental implants timeline, it will also create a more stable foundation for your implant-supported restoration and reduce the likelihood of implant failure.

The Sinus Lift Procedure

Before beginning the procedure, we will ensure you are comfortable by providing nitrous oxide sedation. Then, Dr. Lee will make an incision in the gum tissue above the treatment area and create a small window in the bone to access the sinuses. Next, he will gently raise the sinus floor and pack the empty space with grafting material. Once the material is in place, he will close the window with sutures. For most patients, implants are placed six to nine months after their sinus lift procedure.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

You may experience some swelling or minor bleeding after your sinus lift. Avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully for the first few days as these actions can loosen your stitches or cause the grafting material to shift.

Dr. Lee may provide you with a saline spray and medication to prevent congestion and inflammation. You may also receive a medication for pain, an antibiotic, and an antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent infection. Most patients experience minor discomfort after the procedure, so we recommend you take it easy for the first few days.

If you are unable to receive dental implants due to a low sinus floor or lack of sufficient bone tissue, a sinus lift from Dr. Lee may help.

After about seven to 10 days, you will need to return to our office for a follow-up appointment with Dr. Lee. We may also ask you to return periodically so we can monitor your healing and determine when you are ready for implant placement. If you experience persistent swelling, pain, or bleeding after the first two days or develop a fever, contact our office right away as these may be signs of complications.

Restore Your Implant Candidacy

Implant-supported restorations are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement methods. If you are unable to receive dental implants due to a low sinus floor or lack of sufficient bone tissue, a sinus lift from Dr. Lee may help. Contact our office online or call us at (817) 482-3804 to learn more about sinus lifts and the other bone grafting procedures we offer.

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Get In Touch With Us

Address: 2651 Texas Dr, Irving, TX 75062
Phone: (817) 532-5261
Email: kgdental@kidsandgrownupsdental.com

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