Sinus Lift in Richland, WA
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What is a Sinus Lift?
The maxillary sinuses are the air-filled cavities in your cheek bones and are located just above the molars in the back of the upper jaw. There is a layer of bone that separates the sinuses and teeth. When teeth are missing in this region, the amount of bone remaining can vary. If this layer of bone is too thin, it will not be able to adequately support the dental implants necessary for tooth replacement. In these situations, a sinus lift may be used to lift the sinus up and place a bone graft to increase the bone volume.
As dental implant technology has improved, sinus lifts have become a very common procedure to prepare the mouth for implant placement. It enables more patients to be eligible for this type of long-term tooth replacement and can enhance outcomes by building a stronger, more stable foundation.
Some patients require a sinus lift because they lack sufficient bone density due to bone resorption following prolonged tooth loss, while others naturally have sinuses that sit very close to the upper jaw, and more space is needed to accommodate implants. Regardless of the reason, Dr. Smiley can safely raise the sinus and place a bone graft to allow for dental implants in the back of the upper jaw.
What Can I Expect?
During your consultation, Dr. Smiley will take x-rays and images to get a clear picture of your teeth, jaw, and sinuses. Measurements will be taken to determine the height and width of available bone to see if it will support dental implants or if sinus lift surgery is necessary.
A detailed treatment plan will be created based on the anatomy of your mouth and sinuses. Dr. Smiley will discuss bone grafting options to decide which type of material is used, and he will also review sedation options to keep you as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Before the procedure begins, anesthesia will be administered to help you relax and to numb the area. An incision will be made in the gums at the back of the upper jaw to expose the bone. A small piece of bone will be removed to allow access to the sinuses. Dr. Smiley will gently lift the sinus membrane to increase the amount of space available between the sinuses and the jaw. Then, a bone graft will be placed to fill this newly created space, adding volume to the existing bone while also holding the sinuses in their raised position.
Once the bone graft is in place, the gums will be sutured closed, and the procedure will be complete. It is normal to feel some minor discomfort for a few days after surgery, but many patients find that applying an ice pack and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever is enough to manage any pain. Within a day or two, you should be able to resume many of your normal activities, while being cautious to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing as much as possible. It will take several weeks for the new bone to grow and harden before it is strong enough to support dental implants.
You're in Good Hands with Dr. Smiley
While the thought of a sinus lift can seem intimidating at first, it is a relatively simple and safe procedure that can enable you to get dental implants and move forward with replacing missing teeth. At Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery, your comfort and safety are a top priority as we work with you to improve your oral health and create a beautiful, lasting smile. Schedule a consultation with us at (509) 802-6026.
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Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery Dental Implants & Wisdom Teeth in Richland, WA
Richland | Pasco | Kennewick
Tri-Cities Oral & Facial Surgery is proud to serve patients throughout Richland, Pasco and Kennewick, WA and surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of oral surgery services including dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, tooth extractions, and bone grafting, as well as sedation options to enhance your safety and comfort. Centrally located near Pasco and Kennewick, WA, we are the convenient practice to visit for your wisdom teeth, dental implant and other oral surgery needs.