The jawbone plays a crucial role in providing a stable foundation to your teeth and decides the fate of dental implants when you need to replace missing teeth. Poor bone health or compromised bone density and thickness can negatively impact the outcome of dental implants. The upper jaw has been one of the most difficult areas to place dental implants due to inadequate bone quantity and proximity to the sinus.

Sinus lift surgery or sinus augmentation offered by the dental practice in Oakland helps strengthen the jawbone and facilitate easy implant placement. Dive into this informative blog to know everything about sinus augmentation.

When is sinus augmentation recommended?

According to the Foundation of Oral Rehabilitation, you will be recommended a sinus augmentation if there is:

• Less than 4 to 6 mm of bone height in the posterior region of your jaw.
• Tooth loss due to birth defects, cancer, or periodontal disease resulting in the thinning of the jawbone over time. 
• Inadequate bone in the area of implant placement causes poor anchorage, and the implant will fail to perform demanding tasks like chewing.

How is sinus augmentation performed? 

Preparation 

• Your dentist will examine your teeth, mouth, and gums to assess your oral health. The amount of jawbone near the area of implant placement will be evaluated through dental X-rays or CT (Computed Tomography) scan.

Procedure 

• Your doctor will administer local anesthesia to numb the surgical area.
• A tiny incision or cut will be made near the upper premolar and molar area to expose the jawbone.
• Your doctor will make a small opening into the bone using ultrasonic instruments. 
• The membrane lining the sinus on the other side of the opening will be carefully pushed upwards.
• The space created will be filled with bone graft material (taken from your own body, a deceased donor, or a synthetic material that can stimulate bone formation).
• Your doctor will then close the incision through sutures.
• Once the surgical site heals, the dental implants will be placed.

Bottom line 

Sinus augmentation is a highly successful procedure that allows you to receive dental implants and restore function and aesthetics to your smile in case of insufficient bone thickness. However, it requires careful planning and execution by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon to ensure optimal outcomes.