Upper Jaw Preparation
Sinus Lift Surgery in Cumming, GA
A sinus lift adds bone to the upper jaw between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses, creating enough support for dental implant placement. Dr. William Shin at Jawline Oral Surgery performs this procedure with CBCT-guided precision for predictable, comfortable results.
Understanding the Procedure
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that increases the amount of bone in the upper jaw, specifically in the area of the premolars and molars. The maxillary sinuses sit just above the roots of the upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost, the sinus cavity can expand into the space where bone once existed, leaving insufficient bone height for dental implants.
During the procedure, the sinus membrane is carefully lifted and bone graft material is placed between the jaw and the membrane. Over several months, the graft integrates with natural bone, creating enough height and density to support implant placement. This is one of the most common preparatory procedures for upper jaw dental implants.
When It Is Needed
Do You Need a Sinus Lift for Upper Implants?
Missing Upper Back Teeth
Bone loss occurs naturally after upper premolars or molars are extracted. The longer teeth have been missing, the more bone tends to resorb.
Enlarged Sinus Cavity
Some patients naturally have larger sinuses that sit close to the jaw, leaving minimal bone between the sinus floor and the ridge crest.
Periodontal Disease
Advanced gum disease can cause bone loss in the upper jaw that extends toward the sinus cavity, reducing available bone for implants.
Long-Term Denture Wear
Wearing upper dentures for many years without implants allows continuous bone resorption, often making a sinus lift necessary before transitioning to implant-supported teeth.
What to Expect
The Sinus Lift Procedure Step by Step
3D Evaluation
Dr. Shin uses CBCT imaging to measure the bone height between your jaw and sinus, assess sinus anatomy, and plan the lift precisely.
Sinus Membrane Elevation
Under sedation or local anesthesia, a small window is created in the bone and the sinus membrane is gently lifted to create space for the graft.
Bone Graft Placement
Bone graft material is packed into the space created between the jaw and the lifted membrane. The site is closed with sutures.
Healing and Implant Placement
The graft integrates over 4 to 9 months. Once healed, dental implants can be placed. In some cases, implants and the sinus lift can be performed simultaneously.
Common Questions
Sinus Lift FAQ
Most sinus lifts require 4 to 9 months of healing before implants can be placed. The exact timeline depends on the amount of bone grafted and your body's healing response. In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as the sinus lift.
The procedure is performed under anesthesia and sedation, so you should not feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild to moderate and manageable with prescribed medication. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
In some cases, yes. If you have enough existing bone to stabilize the implant initially, both procedures can be combined into a single surgery. Dr. Shin determines feasibility based on your 3D imaging results.
Sinus lift costs vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether one or both sides need treatment. We provide a detailed estimate during your consultation and discuss insurance coverage and financing options.
Prepare Your Upper Jaw for Implants
Schedule your sinus lift consultation with Dr. William Shin at Jawline Oral Surgery in Cumming, GA.