What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a procedure done in the back of the upper jaw. The sinus is a hollow space, and you can’t place an implant into air. To create enough bone for an implant in that area, some providers lift the sinus membrane and pack bone graft material underneath it.

 

We don’t perform sinus lifts because we’ve found more predictable alternatives. If someone needs upper implants, I typically place four implants toward the front of the upper jaw, where the bone is stronger, and use them to support either a fixed bridge or a denture. That avoids the sinus area altogether.

 

If you’re missing a single upper back tooth, another option is a bridge. A bridge places a replacement tooth in the middle and crowns the two teeth on either side. You could also consider an upper partial denture, and if needed, we can stabilize it with implants placed in the front of the upper jaw.

 

This is simply our approach and what works well in my practice. Other clinicians may use sinus lifts successfully, but our recommendation is to avoid the sinus area when possible and use alternative solutions that provide stable, predictable outcomes.

 

If you or someone you love is struggling with missing teeth or loose dentures, contact Big Sky Dentures & Implants in Missoula, MT, for a free implant consultation to learn how our life-changing treatments can enhance your smile, improve your function, and restore your self-confidence.