Sinus Lift

Placing a dental implant requires sufficient jawbone for support, which can be especially challenging in the upper back jaw. Following tooth loss, the jawbone can diminish, and the sinus cavity may enlarge into the area previously occupied by tooth roots. This often leaves inadequate bone to support a dental implant.

A sinus lift is performed to increase the amount of available bone in the upper jaw by creating space beneath the sinus membrane and placing bone grafting material in the area. By adding bone beneath the sinus cavity, this procedure enables dental implants for patients who might otherwise have limited options.

Patients in Toronto and Waterloo are often referred for a sinus lift as part of a treatment plan that includes dental implants or full-mouth rehabilitation.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) raises the floor of the sinus cavity. Bone grafting material is placed into the new space. The graft then integrates with the existing bone, increasing bone height and volume.

The goal is straightforward: create sufficient bone support for future implant placement.

The upper molar and premolar regions sit directly beneath the sinus cavity. This area often needs extra bone development.

How Do I Know If I Need a Sinus Lift?

Many patients ask whether bone loss automatically means they are not a candidate for dental implants.

The answer depends on the remaining bone and the location of the missing tooth. During a consultation, diagnostic imaging examines the jawbone and sinus anatomy. When there is insufficient bone below the sinus cavity, your provider may recommend a sinus lift prior to implant placement.

A variety of factors may lead to bone loss, such as:

• Missing teeth
• Periodontal disease
• Previous extractions
• Trauma
• Natural anatomical variation

Each treatment plan is based on the individual’s oral health needs and restorative goals.

What Happens During Treatment?

An oral surgeon performs the sinus lift after a comprehensive evaluation and development of a treatment plan. Bone grafting material is placed beneath the sinus membrane to encourage the development of new bone in the area.

Depending on the available bone volume, implant placement may occur during the same appointment or after a healing period.

Patients are provided with post-operative instructions and scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and bone development.

Is Recovery Difficult?

Recovery varies from person to person; most patients can return to many normal daily activities within a few days. Mild swelling, congestion, tenderness, and minor bleeding may occur during the initial healing phase.

Healing continues over several months as the grafting material integrates with the natural bone. This process is an important step in creating the support needed for future restorative treatment.

Why Is a Sinus Lift Performed Before Dental Implants?

Dental implants need surrounding bone for support. If bone volume is too low, options may be limited.

A sinus lift helps create additional space for bone regeneration, making more patients candidates for implant-based tooth replacement. For individuals who have been missing upper teeth for many years, it can be an important part of rebuilding the foundation needed for long-term oral function.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’ve been advised that bone loss could impact your eligibility for dental implants, scheduling a consultation will help assess your options and identify suitable treatments. We provide oral and maxillofacial surgery and comprehensive dentistry in Toronto and Waterloo, including sinus lift procedures and bone grafting treatments. Contact our office to learn more about whether a sinus lift may be recommended as part of your treatment plan.