Internal and External Sinus Lift in San Diego, CA

What is an Internal Sinus Lift?

An internal sinus lift, or a lateral window sinus lift, is a surgical technique performed in the upper jaw to augment the bone volume in the posterior maxilla (the area behind the back teeth). This procedure becomes necessary when the posterior maxilla has insufficient bone height to support dental implants.

During an internal sinus lift, the surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue near the intended implant site. The surgeon then creates a tiny opening in the bone and gently elevates the sinus cavity’s membrane. This action creates a space between the membrane and the bone, filled with bone graft material. The purpose of the bone graft is to provide additional support for the dental implant.

Once the bone graft material is in place, the incision is closed with stitches, and the bone has time to heal and fuse with the natural bone for several months. Once the healing process is complete, the patient can undergo implant placement surgery.

What is an External Sinus Lift?

An external sinus lift, also known as a lateral window sinus lift or a crystal sinus lift, is a surgical procedure used in dentistry to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw in preparation for dental implants.

The maxillary sinus, located above the upper teeth in the maxillary bone, sometimes lacks the necessary bone structure to support dental implants. An external sinus lift involves creating a small window on the side of the maxillary sinus and gently lifting the sinus membrane upward. It creates space to insert a bone graft material. The bone graft material can be synthetic or sourced from other parts of the patient’s body or a donor. The newly added bone material integrates with the existing bone, creating a stable foundation for dental implants.

An oral surgeon or periodontist with specialized training in dental implant surgery typically performs the external sinus lift procedure. The procedure uses local anesthesia. You may also receive sedation for your comfort. After the surgery, patients may face swelling and discomfort, and they will need to adhere to a special diet and follow care instructions to facilitate proper healing. In some cases, a healing period of several months may be required before placing dental implants.

Overall, an external sinus lift is a safe and effective procedure for augmenting the bone structure in the upper jaw, enabling the successful placement of dental implants.

Treatment and Recovery Process:

The treatment and recovery process for an internal sinus lift procedure typically involves the following steps:

Initial consultation : You will consult with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if an internal sinus lift is the appropriate treatment option for you. The dentist will behavior a comprehensive oral examination, take X-rays, and a CT scan to assess the bone density in the posterior maxilla.

Pre-operative preparations : If the dentist recommends an internal sinus lift, they will provide instructions on preparing for the surgery. It may involve refraining from smoking or avoiding certain medications that can hinder healing.

Anesthesia : The internal sinus lift procedure uses local anesthesia, which numbs the space around the surgical site. In some cases, they use general anesthesia.

Surgery : Once the anesthesia takes effect and you are comfortable, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue near the back teeth and create a tiny split in the bone. The sinus membrane will be gently lifted, and a bone graft substance will be inserted into the space between the bone and the membrane. The incision is then closed using stitches.

Post-operative recovery : Following the procedure, relaxing and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days is important. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort may occur, which pain medication and cold compresses can control. The dentist will offer particular instructions on caring for the surgical site and promote healing.

Follow-up appointments : Regular appointments with the dentist are necessary to monitor the healing progress and determine the appropriate timing for implant placement surgery.

The recovery time for an internal sinus lift procedure can fluctuate depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Most patients can anticipate resuming normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. Full healing and integration of the bone graft material with the natural bone can take several months. After this healing period, the patient can undergo implant placement surgery. Our Sorrento Valley dentist will provide appropriate medications and measures to ensure your well-being during the healing process. Additionally, we will closely monitor your progress to ensure proper healing.

Contact Scripps Poway Dental Care today if you are considering an internal sinus lift near you.

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