Sinus Bone Graft & Dental Implant Case Study
A failed dental bridge and insufficient bone in the posterior upper jaw required sinus bone grafting before implant-supported tooth replacement.
What Made This Case Unique?
Patient Story, Treatment & Results
The original case photographs and treatment details are preserved below and presented in a clearer, properly aligned format.
Sinus Bone Graft & Dental Implant Treatment: Patient Problem, Planning & Treatment
A failed dental bridge and insufficient bone in the posterior upper jaw required additional planning before implant-supported tooth replacement.
After upper back teeth have been missing, the available bone beneath the maxillary sinus may be limited, making implant placement more complex.
What Did This Case Require?
Patient Photographs, Treatment & Clinical Progress
The original photographs and clinical information from this published case are preserved below. Images are presented at consistent sizes to make the treatment sequence easier to review.
Here is a full explanation of the treatment Scott received from Dr. Thein:
Scott came to office with a failed bridge and his previous dentist recommended a new bridge. And Scott did not like that idea.
The thought of someone grinding his good front teeth to attach a new bridge frighten him. Scott asked Dr. Thein for a better solution.
Dr. Thein did a sinus bone graft, placed implants and natural looking porcelain crowns to give a new smile to Scott
“This is the best decision I made for myself. Dr. Thein’s office staff are terrific and Dr. Thein truly cares about his patients and he called me after every procedure to check up on me.”
Scott Johnson.
How This Type of Implant Case Is Evaluated
Evaluation focuses on the failed bridge, remaining teeth, bone height, sinus anatomy, restorative space and the position needed for the planned implant-supported replacement.
Evaluate the teeth, gums, bite and treatment area before deciding whether implant treatment is appropriate.
Assess supporting anatomy and the space required for the planned implant-supported restoration.
Implant position should support the intended restoration, bite and long-term hygiene access.
Implant care includes professional follow-up, home care and maintenance of the final restoration.
How Implant Placement and the Final Restoration Work Together
The published case involved sinus bone grafting before implant-supported replacement of the failed bridge area.
Dr. Robert Thein personally manages implant planning, surgical placement and final implant restoration at Boston Dental Care. This allows the surgical and restorative phases to be coordinated within one treatment plan.
Sinus Bone Graft & Dental Implant Treatment: Key Clinical Takeaway
Insufficient upper-jaw bone does not automatically rule out implant treatment; selected patients may require sinus augmentation or other grafting procedures first.
Case studies demonstrate treatment possibilities rather than guaranteed results. Bone, gums, remaining teeth, bite, health and restorative needs vary for every patient.
Discuss a Similar Implant Problem With Dr. Robert Thein
Boston Dental Care is located at 3730 Foothill Blvd in La Crescenta, California. Dr. Robert Thein provides implant-focused surgical and restorative care for patients from La Crescenta, Glendale, Montrose, Pasadena, Burbank, La Cañada, Sunland, Tujunga, Eagle Rock and nearby communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sinus bone graft for dental implants?
A sinus bone graft is a procedure used in selected upper-back-tooth cases to increase bone height beneath the maxillary sinus for implant planning.
Why can bone be limited in the upper back jaw?
Bone loss after tooth loss and the position of the maxillary sinus can reduce the available vertical bone for implant placement.
Does every upper molar implant need a sinus lift?
No. The need depends on the individual anatomy and available bone seen during clinical and imaging evaluation.
Can implants replace a failed dental bridge?
In suitable patients, implants may replace missing teeth without depending on adjacent teeth for support.
Is graft healing required before implant placement?
Sometimes. Timing depends on the amount of bone available, the graft procedure and implant stability.
How is sinus graft treatment planned?
Planning considers sinus anatomy, available bone, restorative space, implant position and neighboring teeth.
Request an Individual Implant Evaluation
Bring your X-rays, previous treatment plan or implant records if available. Dr. Robert Thein can evaluate your current condition and discuss appropriate options.