Sinus Lifts

Sinus Lifts offered in Chesapeake, VA

A sinus lift can open the door to dental implants when the bone in your upper jaw has become too thin to support them. By gently raising the sinus floor and adding graft material beneath it, the procedure builds the height your jaw needs for a secure, long-lasting result. At Chesapeake Family and Implant Dentistry: Harry W. Squire, DDS, in Chesapeake, Virginia, the dental team guides you through each step with comfort and precision, so your new teeth rest on a solid base. Contact the office to arrange a consultation or book your appointment online today.

 Sinus Lifts FAQ's

What is a sinus lift?


Your upper jaw can be built up near the back teeth with a sinus lift, which creates the bone height an implant needs. Your dentist gently raises the sinus membrane and places graft material beneath it, creating more room for an implant to anchor securely. 


Over the following months, your body blends that material into new, solid bone.


Who is a good candidate for a sinus lift?


If you’re missing upper back teeth and want implants, a sinus lift may be an option when the bone there is thin or your sinus sits low, close to your jaw. This can happen after long-term tooth loss, gum disease, or natural changes in your sinus size. 


The dental team uses a 3D scan to measure your bone height and confirm whether a sinus lift is right for you. 


How is a sinus lift performed?


Your dentist numbs the area and may offer sedation to keep you relaxed. They make a small opening in the gum and carefully lift the sinus membrane. They place graft material into the space and close the gum with stitches. 


Most sinus lifts take about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on how much grafting you need. Your dentist will give you a clear estimate before your visit.


Are there risks or side effects I should know about with a sinus lift?


After a sinus lift, you may notice:


  • Mild swelling and tenderness around the cheek and gum
  • Light bleeding from the nose or mouth for a day or two
  • A stuffy feeling in the sinus area
  • Rarely, a small tear in the sinus membrane or an infection

While you heal, skip forceful nose blowing, keep your mouth open when you sneeze, and don’t use straws. Your dentist reviews warning signs with you so you know when to call.


Can a sinus lift be performed at the same time as a dental implant placement?


Sometimes, yes. When your bone is strong enough to keep an implant stable, the sinus lift and implant placement can often be done together in a single appointment.


If your bone is very thin, the graft usually needs about four to nine months to heal first, and the implant follows later. Your dentist will recommend the best timeline for your needs.


Learn more by calling the friendly office or booking an appointment online today.