If you've been told you don't have enough bone in your upper jaw to support dental implants, a sinus lift could be the solution that unlocks your path to a restored smile. This specialized procedure increases bone volume near your maxillary sinus, creating a strong, stable foundation for dental implants in the upper back teeth.
At Dentaris in Cancún, we use advanced sinus lift techniques to make dental implants possible—even in cases of bone loss or sinus expansion. In the hands of a skilled surgeon, this procedure offers reliable, long-term support for upper jaw restorations.
Key Takeaways
- A sinus lift adds bone in the upper jaw to support dental implants near the sinus.
- The procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and placing graft material underneath.
- Proper evaluation, preparation, and healing are essential for implant success.
- Maintaining oral hygiene supports long-term results.
What Is a Sinus Lift, and Why Is It Needed?
A sinus lift (also called sinus augmentation) is a minor surgical procedure used to increase the height of bone in the upper jaw, particularly where the back teeth (molars and premolars) were once located.
Why Is It Necessary?
After losing upper back teeth, the bone in that area may shrink (resorb), and the sinus cavity above may expand downward. This leaves little room to place an implant securely.
A sinus lift creates new bone height by gently raising the sinus membrane and inserting bone graft material underneath. Over time, this graft encourages new bone to grow, providing a strong base for future implants.
Understanding Your Sinus and Jaw Anatomy
The maxillary sinuses are large, hollow, air-filled spaces located on either side of your nose, just above your upper back teeth (molars and premolars). These sinuses are lined with a thin membrane and naturally sit close to the roots of the upper teeth. In some individuals, the roots may even extend into the sinus space.
When a tooth is lost in this area, two things happen:
- The bone that once supported the tooth begins to shrink over time—a natural process known as bone resorption.
- The floor of the sinus may gradually expand downward, further reducing the amount of available bone in the upper jaw.
As a result, the vertical height of the bone between your mouth and your sinus becomes too thin to support a dental implant. Attempting to place an implant in such a space would increase the risk of failure, sinus perforation, or poor long-term stability.
This is where a sinus lift becomes important. By carefully lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone graft material, we can restore the bone height needed to support dental implants securely and safely.
Understanding this anatomy is essential not only for surgical planning but also for setting realistic expectations about your treatment timeline and the importance of proper healing before implant placement.
When Is a Sinus Lift Recommended?
Your dentist or surgeon may recommend a sinus lift if:
- You’ve been missing upper back teeth for a long time.
- Your jawbone is too thin or low to hold an implant.
- A previous dental condition or infection caused bone loss.
- Imaging shows your sinus is too close to the implant site.
At Dentaris, we use 3D digital imaging to assess the precise height and width of your jawbone and plan your treatment accordingly.
What Happens During a Sinus Lift Procedure?
The sinus lift is a well-established surgical technique performed in our clinic under local anesthesia, with or without sedation depending on your preference.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Incision and Access
A small incision is made in the gum tissue near the missing tooth site. A tiny window is then created in the upper jawbone to reach the sinus floor. - Lifting the Sinus Membrane
The thin membrane lining the sinus is carefully pushed upward, creating space between it and the jawbone. - Placing the Bone Graft
Bone graft material is packed into this space. This acts as a scaffold for new bone to grow over time. - Healing and Integration
The area is closed with sutures and left to heal for several months. During this time, your body naturally replaces the graft with real bone.
Types of Bone Graft Materials
The type of graft used may vary depending on your individual case:
- Autograft: Bone taken from another area of your body.
- Allograft: Donor bone from a tissue bank.
- Xenograft: Bone derived from animals (commonly bovine).
- Alloplast: Synthetic graft material.
At Dentaris, we select the most suitable graft type based on your health, bone volume, and goals—prioritizing safety and predictable healing.
Timeline for Implant Placement After a Sinus Lift
The healing time before placing a dental implant can range from 4 to 9 months, depending on:
- The type of graft material used
- Your body's natural healing response
- The amount of bone needed
In some cases, where bone volume is borderline but sufficient, implant placement may occur at the same time as the sinus lift. Your specialist will determine this during your consultation and imaging analysis.
Your Surgical Team’s Role in a Successful Outcome
A sinus lift is a delicate procedure that requires expertise in:
- Sinus membrane anatomy
- Bone regeneration techniques
- Implant planning and placement
At Dentaris, our oral and maxillofacial surgeon is highly trained in complex implant procedures, including sinus lifts. You’ll benefit from precise planning, gentle technique, and close post-op monitoring.
Am I a Candidate for a Sinus Lift?
Before undergoing a sinus lift, you'll need a comprehensive evaluation:
What We Assess
- Bone height and width in the upper jaw using 3D cone-beam CT scans
- Sinus cavity size and shape
- Gum health and absence of infections
- Overall medical condition and healing capacity
If gum disease or infection is present, we will treat it first to reduce the risk of complications.
Postoperative Healing and Aftercare
After a sinus lift, healing and bone growth are gradual processes. Here’s what to expect:
Recovery Timeline
- Swelling and minor discomfort are normal and typically subside in a few days.
- Avoid forceful nose blowing, sneezing with your mouth closed, or flying shortly after surgery.
- Sutures are usually removed after one to two weeks.
- New bone formation continues quietly for several months beneath the surface.
Oral Hygiene Matters
To support successful healing:
- Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft brush.
- Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash if prescribed.
- Avoid putting pressure on the area—don’t chew hard foods on that side.
- Keep all follow-up appointments for evaluation and imaging.
Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, a sinus lift carries risks. Fortunately, complications are rare when performed by experienced professionals.
Possible Risks Include:
- Sinus membrane perforation (which can usually be repaired)
- Infection or inflammation
- Graft material displacement or failure
- Sinus congestion or temporary sinusitis
At Dentaris, we take every precaution to reduce these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
Long-Term Implant Success After Sinus Lifting
Once the graft has integrated, and implants are placed in strong, regenerated bone, you can expect:
- High implant survival rates, especially in molar and premolar areas
- A more natural bite and chewing function
- A strong foundation for crowns or full-arch restorations
- Long-term stability with proper care
Routine follow-ups and excellent oral hygiene, including brushing after every meal, are essential to protect your implants and bone structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an implant at the same time as a sinus lift?
Yes, if you have enough existing bone to support initial stability. If not, the implant will be placed after the graft heals.
Is a sinus lift always necessary for upper jaw implants?
No. If you have recently lost a tooth and still have good bone volume, a sinus lift may not be needed. A consultation and scan will clarify your needs.
How long should I wait after the procedure to get my implants?
Most patients wait 4–9 months for full bone regeneration. Imaging confirms when the area is ready for implants.
Will a sinus lift affect my breathing or sinuses?
No. Once healed, the procedure does not impact sinus function. Temporary sinus pressure may occur during recovery.
How successful are sinus lifts?
When performed by skilled surgeons, sinus lifts have a success rate above 90%. Following aftercare instructions and maintaining hygiene significantly improves results.
Secure Your Smile with Expert Care
If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for implants in your upper jaw, a sinus lift could change everything. At Dentaris, we offer expert evaluation, precision surgery, and comprehensive support through every phase of your implant journey.
Book your virtual consultation today to see if you’re a candidate for a sinus lift and start planning your restored smile—guided by some of the most trusted professionals in Mexican dentistry.
