How Does a Sinus Lift with Ridge Expansion Prepare You for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a reliable, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. However, not every patient is immediately ready for implant placement. In some cases, there isn’t enough bone in the upper jaw to securely hold an implant. At Perio Atlanta, we often recommend these preparatory treatments to help ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants.
 

Why Bone Volume Matters for Implants

Successful dental implant placement relies on having sufficient bone volume and density in the jaw. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate over time. In the upper jaw, this issue is further complicated by the proximity of the sinus cavity. If the bone is too thin or shallow, an implant cannot be safely or securely placed.
 

What Is a Sinus Lift?

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 a bone graft beneath it. This creates more space and bone mass for a future implant. It’s most commonly performed in the area of the upper molars and premolars, where the bone tends to be thinner and the sinus cavity lower.
 

What Is Ridge Expansion?

Ridge expansion is another bone grafting technique used when the jawbone is too narrow to support an implant. In this procedure, the bone ridge is gently split and expanded to create enough width. Bone graft material is then placed to fill in the gap, promoting new bone growth and stabilization.
 

Combining Sinus Lift and Ridge Expansion

In many cases, patients need both a sinus lift and a ridge expansion to adequately prepare the jaw for implants. This combination is especially useful when both the height and width of the bone are insufficient. By addressing both deficiencies simultaneously or in stages, we can create a strong and stable foundation for implant placement.
 

Healing and Implant Placement

After a sinus lift and ridge expansion, it typically takes several months for the grafted bone to heal and integrate with your natural bone. Once healing is complete, and the bone is strong enough, your dental implant can be safely placed with a high likelihood of long-term success.
 

Schedule a Consultation at Perio Atlanta

If you've been told you're not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss, a sinus lift with ridge expansion may be the solution. These advanced techniques make it possible to restore your smile with strong, stable dental implants, even if your jawbone needs some preparation first.
 

If you’re considering dental implants and want to know if a sinus lift or ridge expansion is right for you, schedule a consultation with Perio Atlanta to learn more. Visit our office in Atlanta, Georgia, or call (404) 352-3123 to book an appointment today.