Created 16/3/2015.
Updated 12/16/2023.
What is the maxillary sinus and where is it located?
The maxillary sinus is a mucosa-lined pneumatized cavity located inside the maxillary bone, just below the orbit (the cavity where the eye is located). It is located on both sides of the nostrils and is situated behind the canines and premolars.
What does sinus lift consist of?
Sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical technique used to address insufficient bone volume in the upper jaw or mandible, which can make it difficult to place dental implants. This procedure aims to achieve a stable and esthetically pleasing base for titanium dental implants and dental crowns or bridges.
During surgery, bone graft material in the form of powder or small blocks is strategically placed to enhance the existing bone structure. This promotes the growth of new bone tissue, creating a more favorable environment for implant placement. The maxillary sinus membrane, located over the upper jaw bone, is gently elevated, allowing the bone graft material to be placed between the sinus membrane and the maxillary bone.
By elevating the sinus membrane and adding bone graft material, sufficient bone height is achieved in the posterior region of the maxilla, specifically in the premolar and molar areas. This technique effectively addresses the lack of bone and provides a solid foundation for the placement of dental implants and their subsequent restoration with dental crowns or bridges.
The result of a successful sinus lift is the ability to restore the functionality and esthetics of the upper jaw, allowing patients to regain their natural smile and enjoy the benefits of dental implants. This procedure is performed by trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons who have the knowledge and experience to ensure optimal results for their patients.
In summary, sinus lift is a precise surgical procedure used to overcome insufficient bone volume in the upper jaw, allowing for the successful placement of dental implants and restoration of missing teeth. By carefully elevating the maxillary sinus membrane and adding bone graft material, a solid foundation is established for the long-term stability and esthetic appeal of dental implants and associated dental crowns or bridges.
Maxillary sinus lift is used when there is insufficient bone volume in the upper maxillary bone or jawbone to place titanium dental implants or when we foresee that the crowns or dental caps on implants will not be aesthetically pleasing, powdered bone or bone in small blocks is placed to achieve a sufficient, stable and aesthetic base for the dental implant made of titanium, or when there is insufficient bone volume in the upper maxillary bone or jawbone to place titanium dental implants.
and of the crown or dental sheath. We also use it to solve the lack of bone in the posterior area (premolar and molar area) of the upper jaw, the technique of choice to recover the jawbone and to place titanium dental implants and crowns or dental caps on implants.
What bone is used for maxillary sinus lifts?
Visit our clinics to explain your case. On the first visit we will perform a dental CT and a complete study, totally free of charge. In this way we will know the extent of the problem, your needs and we will be able to advise you about the different types of dental implants and more complicated surgical interventions, their advantages and the price of the treatment.
Do not doubt our professionalism, we will inform you about the best alternatives according to your situation. Book your visit today.
The bone we use for maxillary sinus lifts in most cases is the patient’s own bone and if we need a large volume of bone we resort to donor bone.
How long does a sinus lift take?
Sinus lift is a simple procedure lasting about 20 minutes in which bone is introduced into the maxillary sinus through a small hole of half a square centimeter.
The formation of the new bone and the integration of this bone graft or implant with the titanium titanium dental implants is done at a rate of 1 mm every 3-4 weeks, needing a time of about 6 months to be able to place the crowns or dental caps on the titanium titanium dental implants. Once ossification is complete, the bone graft or implant is reabsorbed by the patient and no trace of it remains in the patient’s body.
Advantages of sinus lift
- They allow to reconstruct the bone, leaving it just as before it was lost.
- They allow the reconstruction of the gum, leaving it with the best possible esthetics.
- They are the best choice for young patients as they allow implant placement even though new teeth are lost years after graft surgery or bone implant.
A good previous dental study performed by professionals is the key to achieve perfect results, that is why we perform a complete dental analysis and a CT scan free of charge to all our patients during their first visit. See this section to see all the services that you will have in your first visit totally free of charge. You can also take a look at our facilities and medical staff, so that you can be totally reassured of our professionalism.
How is the postoperative period in maxillary sinus lifts?
The postoperative period is not painful; at most there may be a small swelling in the area where the bone graft or implant has been performed. The medication we will prescribe is more than enough for you to be free of discomfort. Depending on the type of intervention and the type of bone graft or implant, you will be recommended some type of rest or specific diet. If you want to know what to do in a postoperative period, see this section.
How should the treated area be cared for after a sinus lift?
After undergoing a sinus lift, it is essential to follow the surgeon’s instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Here are some important recommendations on how to care for the treated area:
- Avoid sudden pressure changes: Sneezing, forceful mouth rinsing or intense nose blowing should be avoided, as these movements may affect the treated area and delay healing.
- Medication and follow-up: The surgeon will provide you with a medication regimen that must be strictly followed. This may include analgesics, anti-inflammatories and a stomach protector, which will help control pain and reduce inflammation.
- Application of cold: During the first two hours after surgery, it is recommended to apply cold compresses to the treated area to reduce inflammation. This can help relieve discomfort and speed up the recovery process.
- Proper position: Keeping the head in an elevated position, especially when sleeping, will help reduce swelling and bleeding. It is suggested to use a higher pillow or cushion to keep the head above the rest of the body.
- Feeding and oral care: During the first 24 hours, a soft diet should be maintained to avoid putting excessive pressure on the treated area. After this time, you can begin to gently brush the surgical area, keeping it as clean as possible to prevent infection and promote proper healing.
- Avoid sudden movements: It is especially important to avoid sneezing, blowing the nose or rinsing the mouth with force, as these movements can adversely affect the treated area.
It is essential to follow these recommendations and any other specific instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure optimal recovery after a sinus lift.
What are the postoperative recommendations after a sinus lift?
After undergoing a sinus lift, it is important to follow certain post-operative recommendations to ensure a successful recovery. These recommendations include:
- Avoid activities that generate pressure changes in the treated area, such as sneezing, forceful rinsing or blowing the nose.
- Follow the medication regimen prescribed by the surgeon. This may include analgesics, anti-inflammatories and stomach protectants. It is important to take these medications as directed.
- Apply cold to the treated area during the first two hours after surgery. This helps reduce inflammation and pain.
- Keep your head elevated while sleeping. It is recommended to use a higher pillow or cushion to keep the head elevated above the rest of the body.
- Follow a soft diet during the recovery period. Avoiding hard or difficult to chew foods can help prevent discomfort and injury to the treated area.
- Gently brush the surgical site after the first 24 hours have passed. It is important to keep the area clean to prevent infection and promote good healing.
Remember that these are general recommendations and it is important to follow the specific indications provided by your surgeon. In case you are allergic to any medication or have restrictions, be sure to inform your dentist so that he/she can prescribe a suitable medication for you.
What are the contraindications for a sinus lift?
Contraindications for sinus lift are diverse and may include the following:
- Congestive problems: If the patient presents any congestive problem, it is advisable to postpone surgery until the problem has been resolved.
- Drainage difficulty: If the patient presents a situation of sinus drainage difficulty, it may be a contraindication to sinus lift.
- Insufficient ventilation: If the patient has insufficient ventilation in the sinus area, sinus lift may be contraindicated.
- Acute sinusitis: The presence of acute sinusitis is considered a contraindication to perform sinus lift.
- Chemotherapy treatment: If the patient is receiving chemotherapy treatment, it may be a contraindication for sinus lift.
- Radiotherapy in the treatment area: If the patient has received radiotherapy in the area to be treated, this may be a contraindication for sinus lift.
- Immune system disorders: If the patient suffers from immune system disorders, this may influence the ability to recover after surgery and could be a contraindication for sinus lift.
- Presence of cysts or tumors in the area: If the patient has cysts or tumors in the area of the sinus lift, surgery may be contraindicated.
- Drug and/or alcohol abuse: If the patient abuses drugs and/or alcohol, this may affect the recovery process and may be a contraindication for sinus lift.
For any questions do not hesitate to use the chat on the page, our dentists will help you.
At IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza, we follow editorial principles that guarantee the authenticity of all the information we disseminate. If you are interested in learning more about how we ensure that our content is always up-to-date and accurately supported, we invite you to review our editorial commitment.
This article has been supervised by Dr. Ferran Novell Costa and Dra. Erjona Demiraj, specialists in Dental Health and Dental Aesthetics treatments. Responsible for the treatments provided at IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza and for the supervision and/or updating of the contents of this blog entry. (7/11/2023). The recommendations described are not generic and do not replace the diagnosis and evaluation of a professional in a dental office. If you want us to clarify any aspect or you want a personalized diagnosis and advice we recommend you to come to our dental clinics.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any medium without written permission is prohibited.
