Sinus Augmentation
During your consultation for dental implants or a full-arch restoration, our periodontist will determine if you need an additional procedure like a bone graft, ridge augmentation or a sinus lift.
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants.
Sinus lift surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can be performed under local or general anesthesia and is just one of many options to rebuild jawbone to prep for your new teeth.
Sinus Lift Surgery Candidacy & Benefits
Sinus augmentation is a good option for people who:
Have lost teeth in the upper jaw
Have insufficient bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants
Have sinuses that are too close to the jawbone
A sinus augmentation can provide several benefits, including:
Increased bone depth for dental implants: Sinus augmentation can create the necessary bone depth to support the placement of dental implants, which are a long-lasting and stable solution for replacing missing teeth.
Enhanced stability for dental implants: By increasing the bone depth, sinus augmentation can improve the stability of dental implants, leading to a more functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Improved ability to chew and speak: Sinus augmentation can restore your ability to chew and speak effectively, allowing you to enjoy a more fulfilling and confident life.
Improved self-confidence and appearance: With a restored smile and improved oral health, you can feel more confident in your appearance and enjoy a greater sense of well-being.
Types of Sinus Lift Surgeries
There are two main types of sinus lift surgery: the lateral sinus lift and the open sinus lift. The best type of sinus lift for you will depend on your individual needs and bone density. Our periodontist will discuss which type will be used for your procedure.
Lateral sinus lift
The lateral sinus lift is the most common type of sinus lift. It involves making a small incision in the gum tissue and then carefully lifting the sinus membrane upwards. Bone grafting material is then placed into the newly created space to increase the bone depth.
Open sinus lift
The open sinus lift is typically used when there is very little bone available in the upper jaw. It involves making a larger incision in the gum tissue and then removing some of the sinus bone to create more space. Bone grafting material is then placed into the area.
Recovery from Sinus Lift Surgery
Sinus lift recovery time typically takes a few days to a few weeks. Most people can return to work or school after 1-2 days, but it is important to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks. The following is a general timeline of sinus lift recovery:
Day 1-3: You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. You may also have a stuffy nose or feel like you have a cold.
Day 4-7: The pain and swelling should start to subside. You may still have some bruising, but it should be less noticeable.
Week 2-4: Most of the swelling should be gone, and the pain should be minimal. You may still feel some numbness or tingling in your upper lip or cheek.
Week 4-6: The numbness or tingling should start to resolve. You should be able to resume your normal activities.
Month 2-4: The bone graft should start to heal and fuse with your existing jawbone.
Month 6-12: The bone graft should be fully healed, and you should be ready for dental implant placement.
It is important to note that this is just a general timeline, and your individual recovery may vary. If you have any questions about your recovery, do not hesitate to contact our Back Bay office at 617-456-6714.
If you experience any of the following, be sure to contact us immediately:
Severe pain or swelling
Fever
Redness or drainage from the incision site
Difficulty breathing
Increased sinus pressure
Sinus lift surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. With proper care and attention, you can expect a smooth and speedy recovery.
What To Eat After Sinus Augmentation
After sinus augmentation, it is important to follow a soft food diet to avoid putting too much pressure on the surgical site. This means eating foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as:
Soft fruits and vegetables: applesauce, bananas, mashed potatoes, yogurt, cottage cheese
Soft grains: cooked cereals, pasta, rice
Protein sources: scrambled eggs, soft-cooked fish, tofu
Soups and stews: chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup
Smoothies and milkshakes: These are a great way to get nutrients and calories without having to chew.
It is also important to avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, or sticky, such as:
Nuts and seeds: almonds, pistachios, walnuts
Raw fruits and vegetables: carrots, celery, apples
Hard breads and crackers: pretzels, bagels, chips
Candy and gum: These can irritate your gums and surgical site.
You should also avoid spicy foods, hot drinks, and alcohol, as these can irritate your surgical site.
Here are some additional tips for eating after sinus augmentation:
Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Avoid using straws, as this can dislodge the bone graft.
Rinse your mouth with water after eating to remove any food debris.
Does Insurance Cover Sinus Augmentation ?
Whether or not insurance covers a sinus lift depends on your individual insurance plan. Some dental insurance plans will cover all or a portion of the cost of a sinus lift, while others will not cover it at all.
Here are some factors that can affect whether your insurance will cover a sinus lift:
The type of insurance plan you have: Some plans are more comprehensive than others and may be more likely to cover sinus lifts.
The reason for the sinus lift: If the sinus lift is necessary to support the placement of dental implants, your insurance may be more likely to cover it.
Your insurance company's policies: Each insurance company has its own policies regarding sinus lift coverage.
The best way to find out if your insurance will cover a sinus lift is to contact your insurance company and ask directly. They will be able to tell you what your specific plan covers and if you have any out-of-pocket costs
Contact Dental Implants & Periodontics of Boston
If you’re ready to take the next step to rebuild your smile and improve your oral health, now is the time to contact our office to schedule your consultation.
Our experienced periodontist can provide you with a comprehensive consultation to determine if sinus augmentation is right for you.
Located in the Back Bay neighborhood in Boston, our skilled team can guide you at every step of the way on your journey to a healthier smile.
