Above the posterior teeth on both sides of the upper jaw lie the maxillary sinuses. The sinus is a hollow cavity which can grow into the bony area where an implant would be placed creating an unfavorable and unstable area. In order to restore the bone in this area sinus augmentation may be required.  Sinus augmentation can be done to raise the sinus floor to allow for new bone formation. This is a very technique sensitive procedure that Drs. Bianco and Singh are specially trained to perform. 

Several sinus augmentation techniques exist depending on the amount of bone loss present. Traditionally,  the sinus is entered through a small incision in the gum tissue and the sinus membrane is gently lifted up. The underlying space is filled with bone graft material and the incision is closed.  The bone graft which is used for this procedure may be from your own body or from a cadaver.  The implants can be placed at the time of sinus lift or after healing has occurred; this will depend on the individual case.  Sinus augmentation has been shown to increase the success of dental implant procedures. Most people prefer sedation for this procedure; if you are interested in intravenous (IV) sedation, this will be discussed with you at your consultation appointment.