Your jawbone is a pivotal component when it comes to successful dental implant placement. It serves as the foundation for your new teeth, ensuring they remain firmly in place for decades to come. But if it lacks the necessary density to support these permanent prosthetics, you can be faced with a serious problem. If you’re interested in having dental implants in Jacksonville replace your missing teeth, learn why a sinus lift might be necessary to ensure long-term success.
What is a Sinus Lift & Why Is It Necessary?
A sinus lift is a common procedure performed before a patient undergoes dental implant placement. It occurs in the upper arch of teeth, toward the back of the mouth, near the sinus cavity. Typically, when a molar comes out and a dental implant must be put in its place, a sinus lift must be performed. The reason is that without it, there is nothing for the implant post to fuse to.
Because this area of the mouth sits beneath the maxillary sinuses, a missing tooth leaves a gap in the area between the gumline and the sinus cavity. If a dental implant were to be put into place, it would protrude into the sinuses and ultimately fail.
Performing a sinus lift, though, fills in the space and better protects the implant and the sinuses.
How Does the Process Work?
To perform a sinus lift, a skilled dentist in Jacksonville must take grafting materials from your body or a donor. Placing them in the designated area will fill in the space and create a denser base over time. It typically requires several months to fully heal from a sinus lift, so you will not receive dental implants immediately following your procedure.
Once the area is ready, your dentist will then insert the implant post into the vacated socket. Within 3-6 months, osseointegration will occur, which means the implant and bone tissues are fused, creating a solid base for your implants.
Will a Sinus Lift Hurt?
Before receiving a sinus lift, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area and make it a painless process. If necessary, you can request sedation services to help put you at greater ease. There is likely to be some soreness after the anesthesia wears off; however, over-the-counter medications can help to minimize any discomfort.
Don’t be alarmed if you learn you need a sinus lift. Your dentist and team members will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the process, putting you one step closer to a complete and fully functional smile.
About the Author
Dr. Wayne Barker is a prosthodontist in Jacksonville who understands the process of tooth loss and its negative impact on smiles. By offering dental implants and pre-implant procedures, he can prepare patients’ smiles in the best possible way. If you learn you need a sinus lift before receiving your permanent prosthetics, visit our website or call (904) 645-6457 to let us help.