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Sinus Lifts
Creating space in the upper jaw for dental implant placement
Sinus Lifts in South West Rocks, Kempsey & Coffs Harbour
Been told there’s not enough bone in your upper jaw for implants? This is common in the back of the mouth, where the sinus cavity can sit close to the jawbone.
A sinus lift can help create the bone height needed to support implants in this area, opening up options that might otherwise not be available.
Disclaimer: This Image is for illustrative purposes only. Individual results and patient outcomes may vary.
PREPARING THE UPPER JAW FOR IMPLANTS
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of your molars and premolars. The procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it, creating adequate bone height for implant placement.
This technique is often necessary when the sinus cavity sits too close to the jaw, leaving insufficient bone for stable implant support.
Patients from South West Rocks, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, and throughout the Mid North Coast rely on our experienced team here at South West Rocks Dental for sinus lift procedures that can help enable successful upper jaw implants.
WHAT SINUS LIFTS HELP WITH
INSUFFICIENT BONE HEIGHT IN UPPER JAW
When upper back teeth are lost, the sinus cavity can expand downward into the space where tooth roots used to be. This leaves inadequate bone height for implant placement. A sinus lift aims to create the bone volume needed for stable implant support.
BONE LOSS FROM LONG-TERM TOOTH ABSENCE
The longer teeth have been missing in the upper jaw, the more bone loss typically occurs. Combined with natural sinus expansion, this can make implant placement impossible without additional bone. A sinus lift aims to rebuild adequate bone structure.
NATURALLY THIN SINUS FLOOR
Some people naturally have sinuses that sit very close to their upper jaw, leaving minimal bone even when teeth are present. A sinus lift may be needed before implant placement to create sufficient bone depth for implant stability.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR SINUS LIFT PROCEDURE
COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT WITH 3D IMAGING
We take detailed 3D scans to measure bone height and assess sinus anatomy for precise planning.
ACCESSING THE SINUS CAVITY
Under local anaesthetic, we create a small opening in the jaw to access the sinus membrane carefully.
LIFTING MEMBRANE AND PLACING GRAFT
We gently lift the sinus membrane upward and pack bone graft material into the space created beneath.
HEALING AND BONE FORMATION
The graft material integrates over several months, creating solid new bone for implant placement when ready.
Risk & Recovery
Possible Risks
- Sinus lift surgery carries risks including infection, bleeding, or sinus membrane puncture
- If the membrane tears during surgery, healing may be compromised or delayed
- Some people experience sinus congestion, pressure, or complications after surgery
- The bone graft may not integrate successfully with existing bone
- Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications and graft failure
- Additional procedures may be needed if the initial graft doesn’t heal properly
Recovery
- Swelling, bruising, and discomfort for several days after the procedure
- Nasal congestion and minor bleeding from the nose is common initially
- Avoid blowing your nose, sneezing forcefully, or drinking through straws during healing
- Soft foods recommended for at least a week while the surgical site heals
- Healing and bone formation typically take 4 to 6 months before implant placement
- Regular checkups and imaging help monitor healing and bone development
TRANSPARENT PRICING, NO SURPRISES
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FAQ's: Sinus Lifts
How long does a sinus lift take to heal?
The bone graft typically takes 4 to 6 months to solidify and integrate with your existing jaw bone before we can place an implant. The exact time depends on the amount of bone added, the graft material used, and how your body responds to healing.
Initial healing of the surgical site takes several weeks, but you’ll need to wait until the graft has fully matured before implant placement. This means a sinus lift adds several months to your overall treatment timeline. We monitor healing through regular checkups and imaging.
Is a sinus lift painful?
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during surgery. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but not sharp pain. Some practices offer sedation if you’re particularly anxious about the procedure.
After the anaesthetic wears off, you’ll likely experience swelling, discomfort, and sinus pressure for several days. Prescribed pain relief usually manages this well. Many people also experience nasal congestion initially. Most people say the discomfort settles within a week and is manageable.
Can both sides be done at the same time?
If you need sinus lifts on both sides of your upper jaw, they can sometimes be performed during one surgical appointment. This approach means one recovery period rather than two separate procedures. However, the surgery takes longer and recovery may be more involved.
Sometimes a staged approach is safer, particularly if the procedures are complex or if doing both at once would be too much for your body to manage. We’ll recommend the approach that balances efficiency with safety for your specific situation.
YOUR PAYMENT PLAN OPTIONS
why choose us
WE GET IT
Feeling nervous about the dentist is completely normal. Our team has years of experience helping anxious patients feel at ease. We’ll go at your pace, explain everything clearly, and never make you feel rushed or judged.
MODERN, COMPREHENSIVE CARE
We’ve invested in technology that makes your experience better. CEREC same-day crowns, 3D imaging, digital scanners, and smile design software mean more accurate treatment, less waiting around, and results you can see before we start.
WE STAND BEHIND OUR WORK
All major dental work comes with a three-year guarantee. It’s our way of showing confidence in the quality of care we provide and giving you genuine peace of mind about your treatment.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
We take time to listen and understand what matters to you. You’re not just another appointment in the schedule. We’re here to build a relationship with you and support your oral health for the long term.
NO SURPRISE COSTS
We’ll always explain costs upfront, so you know exactly what to expect. Interest-free payment plans are available through SmileRight and Humm, making quality dental care more accessible without the financial stress.
we get it
Feeling nervous about the dentist is completely normal. Our team has years of experience helping anxious patients feel at ease. We’ll go at your pace, explain everything clearly, and never make you feel rushed or judged.
MODERN, COMPREHENSIVE CARE
We’ve invested in technology that makes your experience better. CEREC same-day crowns, 3D imaging, digital scanners, and smile design software mean more accurate treatment, less waiting around, and results you can see before we start.
WE STAND BEHIND OUR WORK
All major dental work comes with a three-year guarantee. It’s our way of showing confidence in the quality of care we provide and giving you genuine peace of mind about your treatment.
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
We take time to listen and understand what matters to you. You’re not just another appointment in the schedule. We’re here to build a relationship with you and support your oral health for the long term.
NO SURPRISE COSTS
We’ll always explain costs upfront, so you know exactly what to expect. Interest-free payment plans are available through SmileRight and Humm, making quality dental care more accessible without the financial stress.
related treatment
NEED A SINUS LIFT FOR IMPLANTS?
Let’s discuss whether a sinus lift is necessary for your situation.
Call us on 02 6566 6070 or book online for a free implant consultation.