Maxillary Sinus Augmentations

Maxillary Sinus Augmentations

One of the most frequently applied grafting procedures is the Sinus Augmentation. This procedure is restricted only to the upper jaw.

As we get older our sinuses grow larger in volume and literally take away valuable bone from the jaw ridge. This is not a pathological condition, on the contrary, it happens to almost every one. This process is called Pneumatization of the Paranasal sinuses.

Once teeth are lost in that particular area it makes it difficult if not impossible to place endorses implants in that area. For this particular problem a grafting method was developed to literally raise the bottom of the sinus back up, graft bone underneath and, thus, create enough space for one or more dental implants.

Sinus Augmentation and implant placement can sometimes be performed as a single procedure, if enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant well. If not enough bone is available, the Sinus Augmentation will have to be performed first, then the graft will have to mature for several months (depending on the graft material used). Once the graft is matured the implants can be placed.