Sinus Lift Surgery – Build a Strong Foundation for Dental Implants
If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for dental implants in your upper jaw, a sinus lift surgery can make it possible. This advanced procedure restores lost bone in the back of the upper jaw, creating a strong and stable foundation for long-lasting dental implants.
Our expert team uses precise techniques and modern imaging to perform sinus augmentation safely and comfortably. With proper care and planning, you can regain your confidence and enjoy a fully functional smile.
Understanding Sinus Lift Surgery
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that increases bone height in the upper jaw by lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material.
It is commonly required when there is insufficient bone to support dental implants, especially in the back upper jaw where the sinus cavity naturally limits bone availability.
This procedure improves implant success rates and ensures long-term stability, making it a crucial step for many patients planning dental implant treatment.
What is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a specialized dental procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of molars and premolars. The procedure involves gently lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it.
Over time, this graft integrates with your natural bone, increasing the height and density needed to support dental implants.
This technique is widely used in modern implant dentistry to overcome bone loss and anatomical limitations.
Why You May Need a Sinus Lift
You may require a sinus lift if:
You have experienced bone loss in the upper jaw
Teeth have been missing for a long time
The sinus cavity is too close to the jaw
You want dental implants but lack sufficient bone support
Without adequate bone, implants cannot be securely placed, making sinus lift surgery an essential preparatory step.
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
- Â Open Sinus Lift (Lateral Window Technique)
Used when significant bone is needed
A small window is created in the jawbone
Bone graft is placed under the sinus membrane
 . Closed Sinus Lift (Crestal Approach)
Less invasive technique
Performed when minor bone addition is required
Often done at the same time as implant placement
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable approach based on your condition.
Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery
Enables placement of dental implants
Increases bone height and volume
Improves long-term implant success
Restores oral function and chewing ability
Prevents further bone loss
This procedure plays a key role in achieving durable and natural-looking implant results.
Treatment Process Of Sinus Lift Surgery
Consultation & Imaging
We use X-rays or 3D scans to assess bone levels and sinus position. This helps create an accurate and personalized treatment plan. It ensures a safe and effective sinus lift procedure.
Sinus Membrane Lifting
The sinus membrane is gently lifted to create space above the jawbone. This step is done with precision to protect surrounding tissues. It prepares the area for bone graft placement.
Bone Graft Placement
Bone graft material is placed to increase bone height and volume. It gradually integrates with your natural bone over time. This creates a strong foundation for dental implants.
Healing Phase
The healing process takes about 3–6 months for full bone integration. New bone forms and strengthens the treated area. Follow-ups ensure proper healing before implant placement.
Understanding Sinus Anatomy for Dental Implants
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The maxillary sinus is an air-filled space located above the upper jaw. When teeth are missing, the jawbone can shrink over time, causing the sinus to expand downward.
This reduces the available bone needed for dental implants. A sinus lift procedure safely elevates the sinus membrane and restores bone volume, making implant placement possible and more predictable.
Sinus Lift with Dental Implants (Combined Procedure)
In some cases, a sinus lift and dental implant placement can be performed at the same time. This depends on the existing bone structure and overall oral health.
Your dentist will recommend either a single-stage or two-stage procedure to achieve the best possible results and long-term stability.
Areas We Serve
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- Oakville
- Burlington
- Hamilton
- Mississauga  Â
- Glen Abbey Â
- Morrison
- Old Oakville
- Uptown Core
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Frequently Asked Question
How painful is sinus lift surgery?
 The surgery is normally done under local anaesthetic as an outpatient and is not normally painful. Your surgeon will make a cut in the gum where your back teeth used to be.
How long does a sinus lift last?
The average healing time after a sinus lift is typically between 4 to 6 months. This period allows for proper integration of the bone graft and prepares the site for dental implants.
What is the success rate of a sinus lift?
The success rates of sinus lift surgeries vary depending on several factors, including the amount of bone graft material used, the technique used, and the surgeon’s experience. Overall, studies have shown that the success rate of sinus lift surgeries is high, with success rates ranging from 85% to 97%.
What to avoid after a sinus lift?
- Do not blow your nose or sneeze holding your nose.
- Sneeze with your mouth open.
- Do not drink with straws, and do not spit.
- Scuba diving and flying in pressurized aircraft may also increase sinus pressure and should be avoided.
Who is a good candidate for a sinus lift?
Sinus lifts are most often needed for patients who have been missing teeth for a long time. When someone is “edentulous” or missing a tooth, the bone in the upper jaw naturally shrinks and loses its original structure.