If you have been missing teeth in your upper jaw for some time, you may have been told you are not suitable for dental implants because you don’t have enough bone volume. The good news is that this may not be the full story. In many cases it is possible to have dental implants in your top jaw even if you have experienced bone loss – you will just need a procedure called a sinus lift first.

Bone loss is a common side effect of losing teeth, because over time the bone beneath any gaps starts to resorb. In the upper jaw, it is common for the maxillary sinus spaces – above the upper jaw – to increase in size, reducing the height and density of the bone and making it hard to place dental implants. A sinus lift helps to build this bone up again, increasing the chances of a successful dental implant procedure.

Dr Madruga is highly experienced in performing sinus lifts, helping patients to get their confidence back in their smile. He accepts referrals from other dentists whose patients would benefit from this procedure, so if your dentist has told you you are not suitable for dental implants in your top jaw because of lack of bone volume, please ask to be referred to Dr Madruga for a consultation.

What is a sinus lift?

A sinus lift is an oral surgical procedure that extends into the sinus cavity above the jaw. It involves repositioning the lining of the sinus, making it higher so that bone graft material can then be packed into the space.

The graft material may be made from organic or synthetic compounds, or in some cases will use bone from another part of your body (most commonly the chin or the posterior part of the lower jaw). This material bonds with the surrounding tissue, forming a solid structure very similar to bone. After a healing period, the bone density will be checked and when it has reached adequate levels, your dental implants can be placed.