Dental implants are popular replacements for missing teeth, offering a permanent solution. However, not all can be considered suitable for this procedure. Your underlying jawbone should have an ideal density and thickness to support your implant post. For people with insufficient bone thickness, sinus augmentation is recommended.
Powell, TN dental office offers comprehensive and minimally invasive procedures like sinus augmentation to facilitate adequate bone thickness to anchor the implants.
Sinus augmentation- explained
Sinus augmentation, popularly known as sinus lift, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It involves raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the insertion of dental implants. The upper posterior part of your oral cavity is typically one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality. This is challenging also due to the close proximity to the sinus.
Reasons to perform a sinus augmentation
Loss of teeth is the most prevailing dental problem globally due to reasons like decay, trauma, and periodontal disease. The missing space needs replacement to prevent complications like drifting of the adjacent teeth and malalignment. And what better solution than dental implants? These permanent prostheses are the most popular choice for tooth restoration. These provide anchorage to the customized porcelain crowns.
The key factor for a successful dental implant is the jawbone thickness. The titanium posts are inserted into the bone to fuse over a period of time through osseointegration. Insufficient bone thickness cannot facilitate a favorable anchorage for the implant. Thus, sinus augmentation is recommended.
The procedure involved in sinus augmentation
Your dentist will first determine if you are a suitable candidate before proceeding with sinus augmentation.
- Your oral cavity will be evaluated through a clinical examination and dental X-rays.
- Radiographs will provide a detailed picture of your underlying bone and the extent of sinus augmentation needed.
Procedure
- Your dentist will administer an oral or intravenous sedative or local anesthesia, numbing the surgical site to ease discomfort
- A small incision or cut will be made on the gum tissues to expose the bone
- A small portion of the bone will be cut without damaging the sinus membrane
- Your surgeon will lift the cut portion of the bone, raising the sinus membrane
- A bone graft will be replaced in the newly lifted area
- The open incision will be closed through sutures
Summary
A sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, can pave the way for a successful dental implant. It aids in enhancing the durability of the implants, thereby improving your smile and facial aesthetics.
Since sinus augmentation is an outpatient and minimally invasive procedure, it offers minimal trauma to the surrounding structures and promotes quick healing and recovery.