You came in to replace an upper back tooth, and now you’re hearing about sinuses. It’s a common surprise. A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, is a routine step that makes room for a dental implant when the bone in your upper jaw is too thin. Here are the answers to the questions patients ask us most.
Why Does My Sinus Matter for an Implant?
Your maxillary sinuses are air spaces that sit just above the roots of your upper back teeth. When a tooth is lost, two things often happen: the bone underneath shrinks, and the sinus expands downward into the space. The result can be only a few millimeters of bone, not enough to hold an implant securely.
What Actually Happens During a Sinus Lift?
Your dentist makes a small opening in the gum to reach the bone, gently lifts the thin membrane that lines the sinus, and places bone graft material in the space underneath. The gum is closed, and over the next several months your body grows new bone into the graft. At Siena Dental, we plan the procedure with a 3D CBCT scan so we know exactly how much bone to add.
Does It Hurt?
You’ll be fully numb, and sedation is available. Afterward, most people describe it as sinus pressure, similar to a mild cold, that fades over a few days.
Recovery Tips
- Don’t blow your nose hard for the first couple of weeks.
- Sneeze with your mouth open.
- Skip straws and smoking.
- Use saline spray and take medications as directed.
- Stick to soft foods on that side.
How Long Until I Get My Implant?
Usually four to nine months, while the graft matures into solid bone. In some cases, when there’s enough existing bone, the implant can be placed during the same surgery. Your dentist will let you know which applies to you. Learn more on our sinus augmentation page.
Are There Alternatives?
Sometimes. Shorter implants, angled implants like those used in All-on-4, or a bridge may work depending on your situation. We’ll walk you through every option before recommending a sinus lift.
Sinus Lifts at Siena Dental
Because our dentists handle sinus lifts, bone grafting, and implant placement in the same Leander office, you won’t need to see a separate surgeon. Your implant consultation is free. Call (737) 766-7226 to schedule.
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