What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift—sometimes called sinus augmentation—is a surgical procedure that increases bone volume in the upper jaw. Over time, when teeth are missing in the back of the mouth, the bone beneath the sinus naturally shrinks. The sinus cavity then expands downward, leaving less room for dental implants.
During a sinus lift, we carefully lift the sinus membrane and place bone graft material beneath it. This creates new space for bone growth, strengthening the area and making it ready for implant placement. Once the graft heals, the jawbone is thick enough to support implants for a lifetime.
Why a Sinus Lift May Be Needed
A sinus lift is often recommended for patients who:
- Have lost upper back teeth and experienced bone shrinkage
- Have naturally thin bone in the upper jaw
- Suffered bone loss from gum disease or infection
- Want dental implants but don’t have enough bone height
- Need bone reconstruction after trauma or sinus expansion
Without sufficient bone, implants placed in the upper jaw may not anchor properly. A sinus lift ensures there’s enough stable bone for long-term success and durability.
How the Sinus Lift Procedure Works
Every sinus lift at our Santa Fe office begins with a detailed consultation and digital imaging. We use 3D imaging, CBCT scanners, and digital impressions to map the anatomy of your sinuses and jawbone. This helps us plan the safest, most precise approach for your individual needs.
Here’s how the procedure typically goes:
- Preparation:
Local anesthesia or sedation is provided for comfort. - Accessing the Sinus:
A small window is made in the bone above your molars to reach the sinus membrane. - Lifting the Membrane:
The sinus membrane is gently raised, creating space for the bone graft material. - Bone Grafting:
The grafting material—either your own bone or a biocompatible substitute—is placed beneath the lifted membrane. - Healing:
The area is carefully closed, and over the next several months, your body integrates the graft into new, living bone.
After healing, dental implants can be placed securely in the strengthened area.
Technology That Enhances Every Step
At the Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center of Santa Fe, precision comes first. Dr. Diego Hurtado and Dr. Sean Healy use cutting-edge tools to ensure safe, effective results every time.
Our advanced technology includes:
- 3D Imaging and CBCT Scanners: For exact bone measurements and surgical planning.
- Digital and Intraoral Scanners: For painless, accurate impressions.
- Trios Scanner and 3D Printer: For custom surgical guides and faster workflows.
- Digital X-rays: For real-time verification of results.
These tools make sinus lift surgery faster, safer, and more predictable—helping you recover more comfortably and achieve better long-term outcomes.
Recovery and Healing
Healing after a sinus lift usually takes four to six months, depending on the size of the graft and your body’s natural bone growth. During this time, the bone integrates with your jaw to form a strong, stable foundation for dental implants.
To ensure smooth healing, we provide personalized aftercare instructions, including:
- Avoiding nose blowing or heavy sneezing early on
- Using prescribed rinses and medications
- Eating soft foods while the area heals
- Returning for follow-up visits to monitor bone development
Most patients report only mild swelling and minimal discomfort, which typically subsides within a few days.
The Benefits of a Sinus Lift
A sinus lift isn’t just about preparing for dental implants—it’s about restoring the foundation of your smile. Some key benefits include:
- Secure implant placement: Ensures implants are firmly anchored.
- Improved bone health: Rebuilds bone where it’s been lost.
- Long-lasting results: Creates a stable base that lasts for decades.
- Natural appearance: Supports the structure of your face and smile.
By rebuilding the upper jawbone, a sinus lift allows patients to enjoy all the benefits of dental implants—stability, beauty, and confidence.
Rebuild Your Smile with a Sinus Lift
If you’ve been told you can’t get dental implants because of bone loss in your upper jaw, don’t give up hope. A sinus lift at the Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center of Santa Fe can make your dream smile a reality.
Call us today to schedule a consultation and discover how a sinus lift can restore the strength and structure your smile needs to last a lifetime.
