A bone graft is a procedure that involves adding bone material to your jaw to rebuild the bone structure that may have been lost due to tooth extraction, gum disease, or injury. This is crucial for providing the necessary support for dental implants. Without sufficient bone, implants may not integrate properly, leading to complications.

A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a procedure that raises the sinus floor and adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the back teeth. This is often necessary when there isn’t enough bone height in the upper jaw, or the sinuses are too close to the jaw, to safely place dental implants.

During a bone graft, bone material—either from your own body, a donor, or synthetic sources—is placed in the area where bone is deficient. The grafted bone integrates with your natural bone over time, creating a solid foundation for dental implants. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, with sedation options available for added comfort.

A sinus lift increases the amount of bone available in the upper jaw, allowing for the placement of dental implants in areas that would otherwise be impossible. This procedure not only facilitates successful implant placement but also helps maintain the natural contours of your face and prevent future bone loss.

Both bone grafts and sinus lifts are performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort, swelling, or bruising may occur afterward, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and should subside within a few days.

Healing time varies depending on the extent of the procedure and your individual health, but most patients can expect the initial healing to take a few weeks. Complete integration of the grafted bone with your natural bone can take several months. Your surgeon will monitor your progress and let you know when it’s time to proceed with dental implants.

Not everyone needs both procedures. The necessity of a bone graft, sinus lift, or both will depend on the condition of your jawbone and the location where the dental implants will be placed. During your consultation, we will evaluate your specific needs and recommend the appropriate procedures to ensure the best outcome for your implants.

Bone grafting materials can come from your own body (autograft), a donor (allograft), or be synthetic (alloplast). Each type has its benefits, and your oral surgeon will discuss which option is best for your particular case.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including infection, bleeding, or issues with graft integration. However, these risks are generally low, and our experienced team takes every precaution to minimize them. We will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to support a smooth recovery.

Dental implants are typically placed several months after a bone graft or sinus lift, allowing time for the grafted bone to fully integrate with your natural bone. This ensures that the implants have a strong, stable foundation for long-term success.