Implant Site Development · Washington, DC
Sinus Lift in Washington, DC
Sinus augmentation can make implant treatment possible when upper-jaw bone height is limited.
Direct answer
A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) is a bone graft procedure that adds bone height to the upper jaw beneath the sinus cavity, enabling dental implant placement in patients with insufficient upper-jaw bone.
Why it matters: The upper back jaw is the most common bone-loss area for missing teeth. Without a sinus lift, implants in this area are not possible for many patients.
Why see a periodontist: Sinus lift surgery requires specific training in maxillary anatomy, sinus membrane management, and bone regeneration. Specialist expertise reduces complication risk.
Next step in DC: DC Perio performs both lateral-window and crestal sinus lift procedures at the Washington, DC locations. The right technique for your case depends on how much bone height you have to start with.
Why a sinus lift is sometimes needed
The maxillary sinus sits above the upper back teeth. When upper molars are lost, the sinus floor often drops down into the space, reducing the bone available for implants.
If there is not enough bone height between the top of the jaw and the floor of the sinus, an implant cannot be placed without first augmenting the area.
Two surgical approaches
Lateral window approach: bone is accessed from the side of the upper jaw, the sinus membrane is gently lifted, and graft material is placed underneath. Used when significant bone needs to be added.
Crestal (Summers) approach: less invasive, performed through the implant site itself, used when only a small amount of bone height is needed.
Imaging tells us which approach fits your case.
Recovery
Most patients return to normal activity within several days.
Avoid blowing your nose, drinking through a straw, and air pressure changes (flights, scuba) for two weeks.
Bone integration takes six to nine months in most cases before implants can be placed.
Common questions
Frequently asked about sinus lift
- Is a sinus lift the same as a bone graft?
- A sinus lift is a specific type of bone graft procedure that adds bone height to the upper jaw beneath the sinus. The principles are the same as other bone grafting; the anatomy and surgical approach are specific to the upper jaw.
- How long is recovery?
- Most patients return to office work within several days. Bone integration before implant placement takes six to nine months in most cases.
- What is the success rate of sinus lifts?
- Sinus lift procedures have a high long-term success rate when performed by an experienced specialist with proper case selection and modern materials. Risks exist and are reviewed at consultation.
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