Do You Need a Sinus Lift for Dental Implants?

Key takeaways

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift (also called a sinus augmentation) adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the back teeth. The sinus sits just above these teeth. When there isn't enough bone height between the jaw and the sinus, the sinus membrane is gently lifted and bone graft material is placed underneath it. Once it heals, the new bone gives an implant a stable base.

Signs you may need a sinus lift

Missing upper back teeth

When upper teeth, especially molars, are missing for a while, the bone in that area shrinks. A sinus lift can rebuild the bone needed for an implant.

Bone loss from gum disease

Periodontal disease can cause significant bone loss in the jaw. If there isn't enough bone left to support an implant, a sinus lift may be needed. Read Bone Grafting for Dental Implants.

Naturally thin bone or a large sinus

Some people naturally have less bone in the upper jaw, or a sinus that sits low. A sinus lift builds up the bone so an implant can be placed.

What happens during a sinus lift?

• Planning: your dentist takes X-rays or a 3D scan to measure the bone and see the sinus.
• Access: a small opening is made in the gum to reach the bone.
• Lifting the membrane: the sinus membrane is gently lifted.
• Bone graft: bone graft material is placed in the space below the lifted membrane.
• Healing: the gum is closed with stitches and the area heals.

Healing usually takes several months, and this time is important for the implant's long-term success. Learn more on our sinus lift page.

Benefits of a sinus lift

• A stable base for implants: more bone height gives the implant a solid foundation and improves the chance of success.
• Preserves the jaw: rebuilding the bone helps maintain the structure of the upper jaw.

Is a sinus lift painful?

Many people worry that a sinus lift will be painful or risky. In reality:

• Comfort: it is usually done under local anesthesia, and most patients feel only mild discomfort afterward, similar to having a tooth removed.
• A routine procedure: a sinus lift is a well-established procedure with a high success rate. Dr. Desai performs sinus lifts here in our Tustin office.

Read Does Dental Implant Surgery Hurt? for more on comfort and sedation.

Recovery and aftercare

Follow your dentist's instructions closely. Common tips include:

• Don't blow your nose: for the time your dentist recommends, since pressure can move the graft. Sneeze with your mouth open.
• Take medication as directed: use prescribed pain relievers and antibiotics as instructed.
• Rest: take it easy for a few days.

Risks and how they are managed

Complications are uncommon. The main ones are:

• Infection: following your hygiene and aftercare instructions lowers the risk.
• A tear in the sinus membrane: if it happens, it can usually be repaired during the procedure.

A careful assessment with imaging before surgery and a sterile setting during it help keep the procedure safe.

How to find out if you need a sinus lift

Your dentist will look at your jaw and sinus on X-rays or a 3D scan to see if you have enough bone for an implant. If you need a sinus lift, you'll get a treatment plan that covers each step, from the graft to the final tooth. Read Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Find out if you need a sinus lift

If you've been told you don't have enough bone for an implant, book a consultation. Dr. Desai will review your scan and explain your options.

Learn more about Dental Implants →