Sinus Augmentation

Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw and their success depends on the health and density of the underlying bone structure. The upper back jaw has insufficient bone quantity and is present at close proximity to the sinus, which causes problems in dental implant installation.  Sinus augmentation or sinus lift is a gum surgery that lifts the sinus floor and adds bone grafting material to your upper dental arch to improve its bone density.

Why is sinus augmentation performed?

Sinus augmentation or lift is performed when the upper jawbone does not have enough height and density, or the sinuses are in close proximity to the jaw.  Such jawbones are not strong enough to support a dental implant for restoring missing teeth. You may require sinus augmentation in the following scenarios:

• Due to the natural anatomy of the skull, the upper jaw has less bone density than the lower jaw. The upper jaw is not strong enough to support to support a dental implant. 
• Periodontal diseases cause resorption of the underlying bone structure to the extent of becoming fragile and extremely thin. The bone loses its height, width, and density and becomes incapable of supporting a dental implant.
• Roots of teeth stimulate the underlying gums and bone and keep them sturdy and healthy. Once you lose your teeth, the bone stimulation is lost and it starts to dissolve. Sinus augmentation helps in restoring the bone by adding bone grafts to the recessed area.
• When the maxillary sinuses are in close proximity to the upper jaw, it becomes difficult to install the dental implants. Sinus augmentation helps in lifting the sinuses.

How is sinus augmentation performed?

Digital X-rays are used to examine the shape of your sinus and the jaw.  A CT scan is then performed to accurately determine the height and width of your jawbone and the health of your sinus. 

An incision is made in the gums and the tissue is lifted to expose the bone. A small c-shaped window is drilled in the bone and granules of bone grafts are used to fill the space. Once the bone graft has been successfully placed, the lifted tissue is sutured back in place. Bone graft granules are easily accepted by the body, and new bone starts to form around it. The grafting material used for a sinus lift can come from any of the following sources:

Allografts

Allografts use bone tissues from a deceased donor. The bone tissues are clean and stored in a tissue bank.

Autografts

Autografts use bone tissues from your own body parts like hips, ribs, wrist or pelvis.

The site is allowed to heal, and the new bone takes around four-twelve months to develop. After the jawbone has reached the optimal height and width, dental implants can be installed to replace the missing teeth.

We, at Bliss Dentistry of Campbell, California, cater to all your needs pertaining to dental services and routine exams. Our Campbell dentists with their entire team persevere to provide you with exceptional treatment that enhances and maintains the beauty of your smile. If you have any further question, queries or dental emergencies and are looking for an experienced dentist in the South Bay Area, feel free to contact us at (408) 963-6678 to schedule an appointment.