Dental implants have become very popular in recent years, along with additional procedures like sinus lifts and bone grafting. If you are wondering whether this is the right procedure for you, there are some things you have to take into consideration.
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know regarding the sinus lift procedure: what it is, how the procedure will go, why it is necessary, and what the risks are related to it. Our main purpose is to provide you with all the right information so you can be ready for this treatment and what will be expected.
What Is A Sinus Lift?
First off, we will start by explaining what a sinus lift procedure is and what it entails. During this treatment, the dental surgeon will aim to add more volume to your upper jaw near the area of your molars and premolars.
This will be necessary for individuals who have bone loss, which can be a result of different reasons, such as tooth loss or periodontal disease. Not having enough bone will make it impossible for the implants to stick since there will be no support structure.
Furthermore, we will delve into more details regarding the sinus lift procedure and the steps involved. Besides this, it is also important to know what to expect during recovery and what are the risks related to it.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Sinus lift procedure, also known as sinus augmentation, is considered an invasive surgical treatment. During this treatment, the dental professional will make a small incision in the gum tissue so they can have clear access to the sinus cavity.
Then, the sinus membrane will be carefully lifted to make enough space for the augmentation. The bone grafting material that will be placed will allow the growth of a new bone.
The sinus lift procedure is separated into two techniques, and both work great in restoring the density of the jaw that is necessary for the dental implant procedure.
Traditional Sinus Augmentation Technique
During the traditional sinus augmentation technique, the surgeon will make small incisions in the gums at the back of the mouth where the molars and premolars are located. He will create a small window to have clear access to the sinus cavity.
The surgeon will work carefully to elevate the sinus membrane, which will create enough space for the bone grafting material to be placed. Once this is done, they will close the incisions and give the gums enough time to heal.
Traditional sinus lift procedures will be used only in cases when the patient has missing bone in the maxilla posterior area since this is where the sinuses are located.
Osteotome Technique
Another sinus lift technique is the osteotome. This technique is less invasive than the traditional one.
During this procedure, the surgeon will avoid making incisions in the gums and will compact bone graft material in the sinus area using professional instruments called osteotomes, hence the name. Dental professionals will recommend this technique to individuals who lack bone height and thickness in the upper jaw.
Different from the traditional method, the osteotome technique will have a shorter recovery time and less pain and discomfort while healing. Although this all sounds good, it is important to know that not every patient is suitable for this procedure.
In order to find out whether this is the right technique for you, you should consult with a specialised dental surgeon such as Dr Roland Zhuka in Albania.
Why Bone Volume Matters For Dental Implants
In order to decide whether a patient is suitable for dental implants, optimal bone volume is essential. This is important since the implant post should be surgically implemented into a strong and stable bone that will be able to support it. This post will then support the replacement teeth that will look and function the same as natural teeth.
The success of a dental implant procedure will solely depend on the condition of the jawbone. So, if the patient doesn’t have enough bone density and volume, the implant won’t be able to integrate. Eventually, this will lead to further complications and will result in implant failure.
Bone Density and Strength
Both bone strength and density are significant factors for those considering dental implants. The density of the bone tissue will be meticulously measured to determine its porosity or compactness. Higher mineral concentration in denser bone gives implants better support.
In terms of bone density, the lower jaw, in most cases, has more density levels compared to the upper jaw. This will be an important factor to consider before deciding where the implants will be placed.
However, you don’t need to worry because there are many procedures that will help restore bone density, making it way stronger and more durable and providing the right support for dental implants.
Bone Volume and Height
Other important factors to consider before going through with the dental implant procedure will be bone volume and height. These two factors determine whether there is enough room in the bone so that the implant will be placed securely.
If tooth loss is not treated, this will lead to jawbone shrinkage since it will lack stimulation. This is known as the bone resorption process, which will affect the bone height.
If this is the case, you should consider procedures such as sinus lift or zygomatic and pterygoid dental implants for the upper jaw since traditional methods will no longer be successful.
Common Reasons For Bone Loss In The Upper Jaw
Tooth Extractions
One of the main reasons why people suffer from bone loss in the upper jaw is tooth extractions. Our bones need to be constantly stimulated by normal everyday activities such as chewing and biting.
When we have missing teeth due to extractions or different reasons, alveolar bone loss will occur. Since there are no more teeth in the area, the bone will dissolve away. Eventually, this will lead to more serious issues in the future.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is another common reason that can lead to bone loss in the upper jaw. This condition is separated into two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
While gingivitis is reversible, periodontitis is not. If not treated at the right time, this condition will lead to tooth loss, and it will destroy the bone’s ability to support dental implants.
Dentures/Bridgework
Other common techniques for replacing missing teeth besides dental implants are dentures or dental bridges. What is missing from both these techniques is bone stimulation since they don’t replace the missing root.
Dentures will rely on the bones to hold them in place, while dental bridges will rely on other teeth. The pressure that these restoration methods apply is not enough to hold the bone intact, so with time, the alveolar bone will start to deteriorate.
Trauma
Trauma is another common reason that can lead to missing teeth in the upper jaw. If teeth are severely damaged beyond repair, they should be surgically removed.
Eventually, this will stop bone stimulation in the missing tooth area. Also, bone loss can also be a result of the trauma, depending on the type of accident.
Sinus Deficiencies
Above the upper jaw’s posterior teeth is a hollow filled with air called the maxillary sinus. The alveolar bone that once supported these teeth resorbs if these teeth fall out due to air pressure in the sinus.
This will result in enlarged sinuses, which is also known as hyper-pneumatized sinus, which is a serious condition developed over the course of several years. In this case, Dr Roland Zhuka will recommend a sinus lift procedure to treat enlarged sinuses and restore bone jaw structure back to its normal state.
Who Needs A Sinus Lift?
Missing Upper Teeth
A sinus lift procedure will be recommended for individuals who are dealing with missing teeth in the upper jaw, specifically molars.
Since this will lead to bone loss in the future, the sinus lift procedure will provide the much-needed support for the dental implants that will replace missing teeth and restore mouth functionality.
Bone Loss Due to Periodontal Disease
As we mentioned before, periodontal disease can be another reason that leads to bone loss in the upper jaw. Once the dentist determines the condition of your jaw, they will recommend a sinus lift if necessary.
Thin Jawbone
Sometimes, bone conditions are born, and some individuals may have a thin jawbone that is not able to support dental implants. If this is the case, the dentist will suggest a sinus lift to help make it more denser and add volume.
What Are The Risks Of Sinus Lift Procedures?
The sinus lift procedure recovery time is quite simple, and this is what you should expect:
- Some type of pain is normal, but it can easily be managed with painkillers.
- If the stitches are soluble, they will need to be removed by the dentist about 10 days after the treatment.
- Swelling is also normal, and it will go down in about two days.
- You will notice bruising over the cheek, and it may spread over the lower jaw.
Minimising The Risks
Although complications are possible during this time, they are very rare. However, to make sure you are recovering, follow this advice:
- First and most importantly, choose a specialised dental surgeon like Dr. Roland Zhuka in Albania.
- Pain is a normal response of the body, so if necessary, use painkillers to minimize it.
- It is recommended to avoid blowing the nose for two weeks as it can damage the incisions due to the pressure.
- If the surgeon recommends any medications, take them as prescribed.
How Should I Prepare For Sinus Lift Procedures?
- Since the procedure will be performed under the effect of local anaesthesia, you should not refrain from any foods or drinks.
- Have some painkillers in hand since they can be helpful in minimising pain and discomfort after the treatment is over.
- If necessary, have a loved one accompany you to the clinic.
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