Sinus Lift Surgery for Dental Implants in Glendale & La Crescenta, CA
The upper back jaw can have limited bone height because of natural sinus anatomy and bone loss after tooth loss.
When additional bone is needed for the planned implant position, sinus augmentation may be considered as part of implant site development.
Upper Back-Tooth Implant Sites Can Have Limited Bone Height
The maxillary sinus sits above the upper premolar and molar region. After teeth are lost, available bone in this area can decrease,
leaving insufficient height for the intended implant position in some patients.
Natural Anatomy
The sinus naturally occupies space above the upper posterior jaw, and anatomy varies from person to person.
Bone Loss After Tooth Loss
Jawbone can shrink after a tooth has been missing, further reducing the available implant foundation.
Restorative Position
The implant should ideally support the planned tooth restoration rather than simply being placed wherever bone happens to remain.
Creating Additional Bone Height for an Upper-Jaw Implant Site
Sinus augmentation involves carefully elevating the sinus membrane and placing graft material in the planned implant region.
The objective is to increase bone support where clinically appropriate for future or simultaneous implant placement.
A sinus lift may be considered when:
- Upper back teeth have been missing for an extended period
- Bone height is limited beneath the sinus
- Previous tooth loss has reduced ridge volume
- The desired implant position requires additional support
- CT imaging shows sinus anatomy that affects the implant plan
Measure the Bone and Understand the Sinus Before Surgery
Three-dimensional imaging can help evaluate residual bone height, sinus anatomy, ridge dimensions and the intended implant trajectory.
The treatment plan can then determine whether augmentation is needed and how it relates to implant placement.
Sinus Graft First, Implant Later
When the existing bone is not adequate for predictable initial implant stability, the graft may be allowed to heal before implant placement is considered.
Sinus Augmentation With Implant Placement
In selected cases, sinus augmentation and implant placement may be performed during the same treatment phase when clinical conditions allow.
The Sinus Procedure Should Support the Implant Plan
Dr. Thein performs implant surgery and implant restoration, allowing the grafting and implant phases to be considered in relation to the final tooth position, bite and restorative design.
Sinus Lift FAQs
Why would I need a sinus lift before a dental implant?
A sinus lift may be considered when the upper back jaw does not have enough bone height for the planned implant position.
Can the implant be placed at the same time as the sinus lift?
Sometimes. The decision depends on available bone, implant stability, the extent of augmentation and the individual treatment plan.
How long does a sinus graft take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the procedure, grafting requirements and whether implant placement is simultaneous or staged.
Does every upper molar implant need a sinus lift?
No. A sinus lift is considered only when available bone and sinus anatomy indicate that additional bone support may be needed.
How do you know how much bone is available?
Clinical examination and appropriate imaging, including three-dimensional imaging when indicated, can help evaluate the implant site and sinus anatomy.
Request a Sinus Lift & Dental Implant Evaluation
Find out whether sinus augmentation is actually needed for your implant plan and how it fits into the final restoration.