Sinus Augmentation

The most important factor in the successful outcome of dental implant placement is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant fixture is placed. The back of the top jaw which is just below the sinuses has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants. There are different techniques to augment the sinus based on your particular case. All share the same end result of raising the sinus floor and allowing for new bone to form.

In one common approach a small window is cut into the bone adjacent to the sinus. This piece of bone is then swung into the sinus cavity like a door and the empty space underneath it is filled with bone grafting material. A few sutures are placed and the area is allowed to heal while the bone develops, usually for about four to eight months.

In some approaches it is possible to graft the sinus through a less invasive approach and even place the dental implant at the same time the sinus is augmented. There is no question that this treatment significantly increases the likelihood of a successful long term outcome in those patients who have inadequate bone levels. Many patients report minimal discomfort following the procedure and are often extremely satisfied with their finally implant restorations which would not have been possible without this grafting procedure.