Sinus Liftbone Graft
A dental bone graft is a procedure used to restore and strengthen the jawbone, supporting its structure and encouraging natural bone regeneration. In cases where there isn’t enough bone height in the upper jaw—often due to bone loss or the position of the sinuses—a sinus lift may be necessary. This involves gently elevating the sinus membrane and placing a bone graft on the sinus floor to create enough space and stability for future dental implants. Together, bone grafting and sinus lift procedures help ensure a solid foundation for long-term oral health and implant success.
How is the Sinus Lift Procedure Performed?
The sinus lift procedure is designed to increase the volume of bone in the upper jaw, providing a strong foundation for dental implants. This process helps ensure the implants have the stability they need for long-term success.
To begin, the gum tissue is carefully cut in the area where the back tooth was previously located. This tissue is then lifted to expose the underlying bone, creating a small window. Just beneath this window lies the sinus membrane, which separates the sinus cavity from the jaw. The dentist gently lifts this membrane away from the bone to create space.
Once the membrane is moved, bone graft material is placed in the newly created space. Typically, this grafting material is positioned above the jaw to augment the bone mass.
After the procedure, the gum tissue is sutured back in place, and the area is left to heal. Healing typically takes anywhere from four to nine months, depending on the amount of bone graft used. The grafted bone gradually integrates with the natural bone, becoming strong enough to support dental implants.
Once the bone has fully healed and fused with the graft, your dental implants can be successfully placed, restoring your smile with enhanced function and stability.
What Are the Benefits of a Sinus Lift?
Sinus augmentation and bone grafting offer multiple benefits that enhance both oral function and overall dental health. It reduces the risk of sinus damage by creating a safe buffer between dental procedures and the delicate sinus membrane, which is especially important when placing implants in the upper jaw. It strengthens the sinus wall, providing a more stable foundation for future dental work and improving the long-term durability of the jawbone. It stimulates the regrowth of new bone to replace any lost bone, restoring volume and density in areas affected by tooth loss or gum disease. It creates the necessary space for new upper teeth, making implant placement possible where it once may have been too risky or difficult. Lastly, it helps fight periodontal (gum) disease by supporting the surrounding bone and tissue, which can halt the progression of infection and contribute to healthier gums and a stronger bite.
Our sinus lift procedure in Marlborough has a remarkable 90% success rate, helping many patients achieve a stronger, more stable foundation for dental implants. However, due to the cost and the extended healing period required before moving forward with implants, it may not be the right option for everyone. We’ll be happy to discuss whether this procedure is suitable for your unique needs.
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See if this procedure is the perfect solution for you. Call us today at (508) 290-8714 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
In cases with sufficient existing bone height (≥5 mm), a simultaneous (staged) approach may be possible - placing the graft and implant in the same surgery. When bone height is critically low (<5 mm), a staged approach is safer, allowing full sinus healing before implant surgery.
The primary risk is sinus membrane perforation, which occurs in approximately 10–20% of cases. If minor, it can often be repaired during surgery. Other rare risks include infection, graft failure, and sinusitis. Dr. Mehta's experience and use of cone beam CT imaging significantly reduces these risks.
Patients are instructed not to blow their nose forcefully or sneeze with closed mouth for 2–4 weeks post-surgery to protect the healing sinus membrane. Most patients notice only mild temporary stuffiness and return to normal within a week or two.
When sinus augmentation is performed specifically to support dental implants, it is typically not covered by standard medical insurance. Some dental plans may offer partial coverage. Oxford Smiles will verify your benefits and provide a full cost estimate before proceeding.
A: The lateral window approach involves creating an opening in the outer wall of the sinus for maximum bone grafting access - used for larger volume needs. The approach is less invasive, performed through the implant site - suitable when only 1–2 mm of additional bone height is needed.
Flexible Financing & Insurance options
We strive to make dental care affordable and accessible for all our patients. That's why we accept most major insurances, and will work with you to help you understand your plan and maximize your benefits. If you have questions about insurance, or anything at all, give us a call to speak with one of our friendly insurance experts. Don't see your insurance listed? Give us a call on (508) 290-8714, and we'll walk you through all your options!
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Flexible financing & membership plans available
We offer Quality Membership Plans along with flexible financing options through LendingClub, Sunbit, and CareCredit. Quality dental care is an investment in your health and happiness and we believe the cost of treatment should never stand in the way of your ideal smile. That's why we partner with trusted healthcare lenders, allowing you to create personalized payment plans that fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Dr. Aditya Mehta – Compassionate Cosmetic & General Dentist
Dr. Mehta, inspired by a family legacy of 15 doctors, brings a deep-rooted passion for healthcare to his work at Oxford Smiles in Marlborough. With a commitment to excellence, he combines advanced dentistry with a warm, personalized approach to ensure every patient feels valued and cared for.
He specializes in cosmetic and general dentistry. Dr. Mehta focuses on creating natural-looking smiles, offering comfortable, anxiety-free visits, and staying at the forefront of dental innovation through continuous education. Trusted for both his gentle care and expertise, Dr. Mehta helps patients achieve lasting oral health with a strong emphasis on transparency and trust.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only within Marlborough but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
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We take great pride in extending our exceptional care to patients not only
within Marlborough
but also from diverse locations, ensuring that our
commitment to service reaches beyond boundaries.
- Marlborough
- Auburn
- Maynard
- Bolton
- Hudson
- Framingham
- Westborough
- Shrewsbury
- Northborough
- Southborough
- Hopkinton
- Ashland