Sinus Floor Elevation
El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists
Periodontists & Dental Implant Specialists located in El Paso, TX
If you’ve been told you’re not a good candidate for dental implants, sinus floor elevation can make it possible for you to get the restoration you seek. It is also an area of expertise for Vahid Khoshkam, DDS, and Naser Rezaei, DDS, MS, of El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists, serving the community of El Paso, Texas. Explore sinus floor elevation in more detail during a personalized consultation, which you can book online or over the phone today.
Sinus Floor Elevation Q & A
What is a sinus floor elevation?
Your sinuses are a series of hollow cavities located behind your nose, cheekbones, forehead, and eyes. All of these empty spaces are interconnected and trap bacteria, filter the air you breathe, and humidify the air before it reaches your lungs.
Your maxillary sinuses are the largest sinuses and are found behind your cheeks. The bottom portion of each maxillary sinus sits just above your upper jaw. This is the area where dental implants are placed.
If there is not enough bone tissue to anchor the implants, a sinus floor elevation can help. The procedure lifts your sinus cavity to make room for new bone formation. The procedure is also called a sinus lift.
What happens during sinus floor elevation?
You’ll receive medication to keep you comfortable during your procedure, so there is no need to be fearful of pain during a sinus floor elevation. If you experience dental anxiety, you might also need a sedative to help you relax.
Once you are resting comfortably, your practitioner makes a small incision in your gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. A small flap of bone is cut and gently repositioned upward to create extra space. This lifts the sinus cavity while still preserving the full functionality of the sinuses.
Next, bone grafting material is placed into the newly created space. Your dental implant is also positioned at this time. Once your periodontist is happy with the positioning, the gums are closed and a healing process begins. Over the following three to six months your bone tissue will fuse to the grafting material, creating a strong anchor for your new dental implant.
Am I a good candidate for a sinus floor elevation?
A sinus lift is a good option for people who have limited room in their upper jaw to support a dental implant. This can occur if you have unusually large sinuses or if your passages are located too near your upper jawbone.
Advanced imaging will give your dental team the information they need to determine if a sinus floor elevation is right for you. You’ll have all the details needed to make an informed decision about your care.
As with any type of oral surgery, be sure to share the full details of your health history with your dental team well in advance of your procedure. You may need antibiotics to protect against infection, or you might need to alter your medication in the days or weeks leading up to your surgery.
If you’re ready to explore sinus floor elevation in greater detail, schedule an appointment at El Paso Periodontics & Implant Specialists today. Online scheduling is available, or you are always welcome to call and speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff regarding appointment availability.