Everything You Need To Know About Sinus Lifts
If you’ve done any kind of research at all about having dental implants in Richmond, you’ll probably be aware that you might have to undergo pre-surgery before implants are fitted. It could be that a patient needs a bone graft to ensure a larger area and better quality bone for the implant to attach into, or conversely it could also be that a patient requires a sinus lift.
But what exactly is a sinus lift?
A sinus lift is usually performed on those patients needing implants placing in the upper jaw and occurs when there is insufficient bone to accommodate the implant. It’s often caused when the maxillary sinus is large in comparison with the rest of their upper jawbone. As such it can get in the way of an attachment.
So what can be done?
During the sinus lifting procedure a part of the sinus is filled in with a grafting material (similarly to a bone graft). After time the results show a much thicker sinus floor upon which to attach an implant.
How is the operation performed?
Firstly sinus lifts are relatively standard procedures that are carried out frequently. Firstly a small incision is made in the upper jaw exposing the underlying jaw bone. A small hinge-like cut is made in the jawbone itself. This moveable section of the jaw bone is then pushed both inwards and upwards into the sinus cavity itself,. This creates a new floor for the sinus membrane to sit on. The empty space left beneath is then filled with bone graft material. Once everything is in place the gum tissue is closed again and a waiting game ensues until the bone graft takes (usually 3-9 months)
In some cases implants are placed at the same time as a sinus lift, but normally healing time is required.
What should a patient expect post operation?
A certain amount of swelling is probable generally increasing up to 4 days after the operation. A small amount of bleeding might also occur but should cease after 2-3 days. Patients are reminded to refrain from blowing their nose or to sneeze. This is generally up to 4 weeks in order to give the area chance to heal. Finally, there may be some slight pain which can usually be kept under control using over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or aspirin. After a week or so however a patient should begin to return to normal.
So there you have it, everything you need to know about sinus lifts and more besides. It might seem a lot to go through in order to undergo treatment for implants, but in the long run it’s well worth it.
If you want to find out more about whether dental implants in Richmond are for you then contact Sheen Dental on 020 8876 5277 or visit our website at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk