Elevate sinus floor height to create ample bone depth for upper molar implants.
The upper back jaw (maxilla) is naturally one of the most challenging areas for dental implants due to limited bone height and proximity to the maxillary sinus cavity.
When upper molars are lost, the sinus cavity naturally expands downward (pneumatization) while the alveolar ridge resorbs. A sinus lift (or sinus augmentation) gently elevates the Schneiderian sinus membrane and places bone graft material beneath it.
Dr. John Nauss performs both lateral window and crestal internal sinus augmentations using gentle piezosurgery technology to ensure maximum membrane safety and predictable new bone formation.
Benefits of Sinus Lift Augmentation
Enables patients with severe upper jaw bone loss to enjoy stable dental implants.
- Restores Upper Jaw Bone Height: Adds 4 to 10 millimeters of solid new bone depth to house robust, full-length molar implants.
- Protects the Sinus Cavity: Gently lifts and safeguards the sinus lining, preventing implant posts from penetrating the sinus cavity.
- Minimally Invasive Techniques: Utilizes precision ultrasonic piezosurgical instruments for gentle bone access without soft tissue trauma.
- Opens the Door to Implants: Makes upper molar implants possible for patients who have been told they don't have enough bone.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Using 3D CBCT cross-sectional scans, Dr. Nauss evaluates the exact sinus anatomy. Under local anesthesia, with nitrous oxide available, a small window is created in the upper jawbone to access the sinus floor.
The delicate sinus membrane is carefully elevated upward, and sterile bone grafting matrix is placed into the newly created space. The site is closed with fine sutures to allow new living bone to mature over 4 to 6 months, or longer.
Sinus Precautions and Healing
Patients are advised to avoid forceful nose blowing, scuba diving, air travel, and similar activities until Dr. Nauss clears them to resume. Sneezing with your mouth open helps keep pressure off the graft site. Recovery is smooth with minimal swelling managed by prescribed medications.