If you were told you don’t seem ready for dental implants due to a lack of bone in your upper jaw, you’re not alone. Many other people experience this same problem, especially in the back of the upper jaw, where it relates to the sinuses. The good news is that there is a solution for sinus lift surgery in Brandon. This is usually the first step in establishing a strong and secure foundation for dental implants.
But who needs it? And how do you recommend it to someone? Let’s try to clarify the process simply.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift or sinus augmentation is a dental surgery that involves filling the upper jawbone, the space directly at the back of your premolars and molars. The bone is added in the space between your jawbone and the maxillary sinuses, which are air-filled spaces behind your cheeks. When you have a sinus lift, the sinus membrane is pushed upward, or lifted, to allow space for the bone.
This adds a sufficient amount of bulk to your upper jawbone when there is a lack of bone height or when the sinuses are too close to the jaw. When there is not enough bone in this area, placing a dental implant cannot be done.
Why Would You Need a Sinus Lift?
Over time, you can lose bone in your upper jaw for several reasons. Here are the most common ones:
- Tooth Loss: When a tooth is removed and not replaced quickly, the surrounding bone may start to shrink.
- Bone Resorption: After losing teeth, the bone naturally shrinks because it’s not being used to support a tooth.
- Large Sinuses: Sometimes, people are born with naturally larger sinuses that are too close to the upper jaw.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can damage the bone, making it too thin for implants.
All of these can affect your ability to get dental implants safely and successfully.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Now that you understand what the procedure is and why it’s needed, let’s talk about who it’s for. Here are signs you might be a good candidate:
1. You’ve Lost Teeth in the Upper Back Jaw
Missing molars or premolars in the upper jaw often means bone loss in that area. If it’s been a while since the teeth were lost, bone may have shrunk even more.
2. Your Sinuses Are Positioned Too Low
Some people have naturally low sinuses that take up the space where the bone should be for a dental implant. A sinus lift can create the room needed.
3. You Don’t Have Enough Bone for an Implant
If X-rays or scans show that your upper jawbone is too thin or too soft, your dental provider may recommend this surgery to build it up.
4. You’re Planning for a Dental Implant
If you’re preparing for a tooth replacement, especially in the upper jaw, you may need this procedure first. Dental implant preparation often includes building up the bone to support the implant properly.
What to Expect with the Surgery
Sinus lift is done by a trained oral surgeon. The procedure is usually performed in a dental clinic with local anesthesia or sedation. You might feel pressure, but not pain. After surgery, you’ll need to wait a few months for the new bone to heal and blend with your natural bone before an implant can be placed. Healing time can range from four to nine months, depending on your body’s response and the amount of bone added. If you’re considering sinus lift surgery near you, this process is a safe and reliable step toward building a strong foundation for future implants.
Talk to a Specialist
If you’re searching for oral surgery near you, a consultation is the first step. Your oral surgeon will use X-rays or 3D imaging to see your sinus and jawbone structure. This helps them decide if a sinus lift is the right option for your needs.
Ready for Your Dental Future? Visit Orange Blossom Oral Surgery—Brandon
Whether you’ve been told you need a sinus lift or you’re just exploring your options for tooth replacement, the team at Orange Blossom Oral Surgery – Brandon is here to help. We’re dedicated to helping you understand your options and guiding you through the next steps.
Don’t let bone loss stop you from restoring your smile. Book your consultation today and see if a sinus lift is the right step for you. Take the first step toward a healthier, stronger smile; call Orange Blossom Oral Surgery – Brandon now and get one step closer to your dental goals!
