At Mission Dental Group, our dedicated team, led by Dr. Debora Jeong and Won Jung Jeong, offers comprehensive oral surgery services, including sinus lift procedures, to patients in Los Angeles and Downey, California. This page aims to educate you about sinus lifts, an important dental procedure that can prepare your jaw for dental implants if you have experienced bone loss.
Understanding Sinus Lift Surgery
A sinus lift is a type of oral surgery that adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. It’s also called sinus augmentation. The procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane upward to make room for the new bone. This surgery is often necessary when there’s not enough bone height in the upper jaw, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw for dental implants to be placed.
Reasons for a Sinus Lift
The reasons for needing a sinus lift vary but typically include:
- Insufficient bone height in the upper jaw
- Loss of bone due to periodontal disease
- Natural anatomy of the skull limiting implant placement
- Previous tooth loss without replacement leading to bone resorption
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Understanding the steps involved in a sinus lift can help patients feel more at ease about the procedure:
- Evaluation: Initially, your dentists will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays or 3D imaging, to assess your jawbone’s suitability for a sinus lift.
- Surgery: During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the gum where the back of your mouth and upper jaw meet. The tissue is raised, exposing the bone beneath. A small opening is made into the bone to access the sinus membrane, which is then carefully lifted upwards. Bone graft material is then placed into the space where the sinus was previously located.
- Healing: After surgery, healing time varies among patients but typically takes several months as the graft fuses with your jawbone.
What to Expect After a Sinus Lift
Post-surgery, patients may experience swelling and some discomfort, which is normal and can be managed with medications prescribed by your dentists. Most individuals can resume their everyday activities within a few days but should avoid strenuous activities that might result in increased bleeding or swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a sinus lift safe?
Absolutely. When performed by experienced professionals like Dr. Debora Jeong and Won Jung Jeong at Mission Dental Group, a sinus lift is a safe procedure with minimal risks involved.
How long does recovery take after a sinus lift?
The initial healing phase may take about one to two weeks, during which time any discomfort should significantly diminish. However, it generally takes several months for the new bone material to integrate fully with your jaw.
Will I need a sinus lift before getting dental implants?
This depends on your individual case; not everyone who gets dental implants will need a sinus lift. Our team will evaluate your situation closely and inform you if a sinus lift is necessary for successful implant placement.
To learn more about how a sinus lift or other oral surgery options can benefit you, please contact Mission Dental Group at 213-380-1996. Our experts are here to guide you through every step of your dental health journey in Los Angeles and Downey, CA.
The information provided on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentists or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.