Replacing an upper back tooth with an implant can be tricky. The bone there is often thinner, and your sinus sits just above it. If there isn’t enough height between the two, a sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, adds bone so an implant can be placed safely.
When You Might Need a Sinus Lift
Your 3D scan shows the distance between your jawbone and sinus floor. A sinus lift is often recommended when:
- Upper molars or premolars have been missing for a long time and the bone has thinned
- Gum disease has caused bone loss in the upper jaw
- Your sinuses naturally sit low, close to the roots of your upper teeth
Without enough bone, an implant in this area could enter the sinus or fail to hold. A sinus lift solves both problems.
How a Sinus Lift Works
Your dentist makes a small opening in the gum and bone to reach the sinus membrane. The membrane is gently lifted upward, and bone graft material is placed in the space underneath. The gum is then closed, and your body begins growing new bone into the graft.
We use synthetic and donor graft materials, and your dentist will recommend the right one for you. Planning with our 3D CBCT scanner lets us measure the exact amount of bone to add.
Recovery After a Sinus Lift
Most patients have some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days. To protect the graft while it heals:
- Avoid blowing your nose hard or sneezing with your mouth closed for the first couple of weeks
- Don’t drink through a straw or smoke
- Use any saline spray or medications exactly as prescribed
- Stick to soft foods on that side and keep your follow-up visits
The graft usually needs four to nine months to mature. Once it has, we place your dental implant. In some cases, when there’s enough existing bone, the implant can be placed during the same surgery.
LOCATED IN LEANDER, TEXAS
Siena Dental is a full-service, one-stop dental office where patients receive comprehensive care for all of their dental needs under one roof. Your smile is the reason for everything we do. Our practice is led by Dr. Bashir Motamedi and Dr. Bruce Beheshtin, both board-certified dentists with extensive experience. Together, they are dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized care for every patient. We proudly serve the communities of Austin, Leander, and Georgetown, offering free parking and a multilingual team to ensure each visit is convenient, comfortable, and stress-free.
| Monday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Thursday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Friday, Saturday, and Sunday | Closed |
| Emergency Services | By Appointment Only |
Conveniently located in Leander, our practice sits in a growing and easily accessible area just northwest of Austin, making it simple for patients from Leander, Cedar Park, and surrounding communities to visit us.
Sinus Lift FAQs
-
Is a sinus lift painful?
You'll be fully numb during the procedure, and sedation is available. Afterward, most people describe it as feeling like a mild sinus pressure that fades within a few days. -
How long does the procedure take?
Usually about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on how much bone is needed. -
Will it affect my sinuses long term?
No. The sinus membrane is lifted, not removed, and your sinus continues to work normally once you've healed. -
What are the risks?
Complications are uncommon. The main risks are a small tear in the sinus membrane, which can usually be repaired during surgery, and infection, which is why following your aftercare matters. -
Is there an alternative?
Sometimes. Shorter implants, angled implants, or a bridge may work for some patients. Your dentist will walk you through every option at your consultation.
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EXPERIENCE EXCEPTIONAL DENTAL CARE IN LEANDER, TX
The team here at Siena Dental is dedicated to providing the best patient experience possible. Our wide variety of dental services are designed to help you smile with confidence.
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