Sinus Lift
Sinus Lift in Fort Walton Beach, FL
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure designed for patients who have lost bone in their upper jaw. The maxillary sinuses, which are air-filled spaces located above your upper teeth and behind your cheeks, can sometimes be affected by this bone loss. It’s important to note that the roots of some upper teeth may extend into the sinus area.
Sinus Lifts: A Solution for Bone Loss in the Upper Jaw
A sinus lift is a specialized procedure for individuals who have experienced bone loss in their upper jaw. The maxillary sinuses, located above your upper teeth and behind your cheeks, are typically air-filled spaces. The roots of some upper teeth can extend into this area. If these teeth are extracted, only a thin layer of bone remains between the mouth and the maxillary sinus. When the maxillary sinuses are positioned too close to the jawbone, placing dental implants may not be feasible. In such cases, a sinus lift is performed, which involves elevating the sinus membrane to create adequate space for a bone graft.
At Coastal Periodontics, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a bright, healthy smile. We utilize the latest dental technology to ensure you achieve the long-lasting results you deserve. If you would like to learn more about our quality services or have questions about whether a sinus lift is suitable for you, please contact us today. We are here to support you in achieving and maintaining your ideal smile!
Candidates for a Sinus Lift
You may be a good candidate for a sinus lift if you meet any of the following criteria:
- You have experienced significant bone loss in the back of your jaw.
- You are missing two or more teeth in the back of your jaw.
- You have lost teeth due to a medical condition or birth defect.
- You are missing most of your maxillary teeth and are interested in dental implants.
Sinus Lift Process
To determine if you’re a suitable candidate for a sinus lift, you’ll need to schedule an initial consultation. During this appointment, we will assess the overall health of your teeth, review your medical history, and discuss the treatment options best suited to your individual needs.
If it’s decided that a sinus lift is appropriate for you, several techniques can be employed to elevate the sinus. One of the most common methods involves making an incision to access the bone. Your periodontist will then create a small circular opening in the bone, which is carefully lifted into the sinus cavity. Once elevated, the space underneath is filled with a bone graft. After this step, the incision is closed to initiate the healing process.
Typically, the healing and bone development process takes between four to twelve months, after which dental implants can be placed.
Aftercare for Sinus Lift
To ensure optimal recovery and minimize complications after your sinus lift procedure, it’s crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your periodontist. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:
- Avoid Sneezing or Blowing Your Nose: During the initial recovery period, try to refrain from sneezing or blowing your nose to prevent unnecessary pressure on the surgical site.
- Manage Bleeding: Mild bleeding may occur at the surgical site. Place a gauze pad over the area and apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops.
- Gentle Oral Care: Avoid vigorous brushing or rinsing for the first few days post-surgery, as these actions can disrupt the healing process and cause bleeding to restart.
- Dental Implants: Once the initial healing phase is complete, you’ll be ready for dental implants.
- Oral Hygiene: After your implants have fully healed, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once a day, ideally each time you brush. Be sure to use proper brushing and flossing techniques.
- Regular Checkups: Schedule checkups with your periodontist every six months. This routine will help reduce the risk of periodontal issues and ensure you continue to enjoy a bright, healthy smile.
By adhering to these aftercare instructions and maintaining a consistent oral health routine, you’ll support the success of your sinus lift and implant procedure.
Sinus Lift Cost
The cost of a sinus lift can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of your case, any additional procedures needed before or during treatment, and your insurance coverage.
Our team is dedicated to assisting you with all necessary paperwork, scheduling appointments, and answering any billing-related questions. If you have insurance, we recommend submitting your medical or dental insurance information with your New Patient Paperwork to streamline the process.
New Patients Appointments Welcome!
