The maxillary sinuses sit directly above the upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost, the sinus can expand downward as the jawbone resorbs, leaving insufficient bone height for conventional dental implants. A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) addresses this by gently elevating the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material in the created space.
When Is a Sinus Lift Needed?
A sinus lift is typically needed when the upper posterior jaw has less than 8–10mm of bone height below the sinus floor. This is very common in patients who have been missing teeth for years or who have worn dentures long-term. CBCT 3D imaging precisely measures available bone height.
The Alternative: Zygomatic Implants
For patients wanting to avoid the 6–12 month healing period required by sinus grafting, zygomatic implants offer an alternative. These specialized implants bypass the sinus entirely by anchoring into the cheekbone, enabling same-day teeth without any grafting. Our surgeons help you weigh both options based on your specific anatomy and goals.
Recovery
Sinus lift surgery requires 4–6 months of healing before implants can be placed. During this time, the graft material integrates with your existing bone to create a solid foundation. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and managed with standard medication.
Schedule a free consultation to determine if you need a sinus lift or if zygomatic implants can bypass it entirely.