Improve Your Dental Implant Candidacy with a Sinus Lift
Patients who do not appear to have the quality or quantity of bone tissue required for dental implants can improve their candidacy for the procedure with a sinus lift. Fortunately, Dr. Byron J. Nordhus offers this preparatory procedure at his Wichita, KS, dental practice. Dr. Nordhus has stayed up-to-date with modern restorative dentistry techniques thanks to ongoing education at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. When you undergo treatment at Nordhus Dentistry, you will be receiving unparalleled comprehensive care.
What is a Sinus Lift?
When upper back teeth are missing, the maxillary sinuses can drop down into the space once occupied by the tooth roots. This can be problematic for those who are considering dental implants, as the implant posts would simply invade the sinus cavity. In order to properly accommodate the implants, the sinus membrane can be lifted up into its proper position and bone grafting material can be placed underneath to fill in the void left behind. A sinus lift procedure can significantly improve your eligibility to receive dental implants.
Who is a Candidate for a Sinus Lift?
Patients who have minimal jawbone tissue in the back of the upper jaw as a result of long-missing teeth are typically excellent candidates for a sinus lift procedure. Before undergoing dental implant surgery, you must be in good overall health, and you must be free from tooth decay or periodontal disease. During your initial consultation, Dr. Nordhus can help you determine if a sinus lift procedure is right for you.
Sinus Lift Treatment
During your first visit, Dr. Nordhus will examine the health of your teeth and gums. He will review take x-rays and scans to determine the exact position of the sinus. This step is a crucial part of the treatment planning process. You can also discuss sedation options during your consultation. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia. However, many patients choose to receive additional sedation.
The day of your procedure, you will be comfortably seated in our surgical suite. Once anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Nordhus will begin the procedure by making an incision in the gums to access the jawbone. Using specialized dental instruments, he will then create a window in the side of the jaw so he can access the sinus membrane. Gently and carefully, he will raise the membrane up to its original position, and the space underneath the membrane will be filled with bone grafting material. This will provide support to the sinus and also encourage new bone growth in the area. Dr. Nordhus will then reposition the gum tissue and close the surgical site.
Preparatory procedures such as sinus lifts and bone grafts can add a significant amount of time to your treatment; however, most patients find the result is well worth the wait.
Recovery and Healing
Most patients experience minimal discomfort following a sinus lift procedure. Any tenderness or swelling can be managed with a combination of prescription medications, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, and cold compresses. You will be given detailed post-operative instructions, which should help you enjoy a swift recovery.
Although discomfort generally subsides for most patients within a few days, the healing process will continue for several months. Following a sinus lift procedure, the healing period can take anywhere from six to nine months, although recovery times can vary for every individual. Once sufficient bone regeneration has occurred, your implants can be placed. Preparatory procedures such as sinus lifts and bone grafts can add a significant amount of time to your treatment; however, most patients find the result is well worth the wait.
Schedule an Appointment with Us
To learn more about sinus lifts and dental implant treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nordhus. Call our office at (316) 721-6730 or contact us online.
