Have you decided to have a missing tooth replaced with a dental implant? If so, you’ve made a wise decision for your long-term oral health. Dental implants are valued for their longevity and their ability to fully restore dental function. It’s important to understand, however, that not all patients are qualified to receive dental implants. Some may need special procedures – including sinus lifts or bone grafts – to get them ready for implant placement. Here’s why you may need a sinus lift before your dental implant surgery.
Tooth Loss and the Sinuses
You have sinus cavities located in your skull. The largest are located just above the jaw and are called the maxillary sinuses. When you lose a tooth on your upper arch, you can also lose jaw bone with it. If bone loss is significant, you may not have sufficient bone structure to support a dental implant. If your oral surgeon attempts to place an implant in the area despite insufficient bone structure, the post of the implant could potentially protrude into the maxillary sinus and increase the risk of discomfort and infection.
To combat this common problem, oral surgeons often perform sinus surgery before placing implants. A sinus lift involves lifting away the sinus tissue so that a bone graft can be successfully placed in the area. Once the bone graft is placed and has time to heal, an implant can usually be safely placed in the area without penetrating the sinus cavity.
The Importance of Seeing an Oral Surgeon
Dr. Mulokozi Lugakingira is a skilled oral surgeon who has experience performing successful sinus lifts in preparation for dental implant surgery. Oral surgeons undergo extensive training that qualifies them to perform delicate surgeries with precision. It’s wise to see a surgeon for your dental implant and sinus surgery needs.
Schedule Your Appointment
We would love to help you replace your missing teeth with sturdy and natural-looking implants. To schedule your dental implant or sinus lift consultation, contact Fort Wayne Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Implant Center in Fort Wayne, IN today!