What Is a Sinus Augmentation?

At Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we can perform a sinus augmentation in order to restore the density of your jawbone.

What is a sinus augmentation?

A sinus augmentation is where additional bone is added to your jaw. Typically, it is added in the area near your molars. This is the area between your sinuses and your jaw.

Why is a sinus augmentation performed?

This type of bone grafting procedure is completed in order to prepare the jaw to receive dental implants. In the event that there is simply not enough bone height to support them, this procedure is necessary for restoring teeth in this durable and dependable manner.

Why is a bone grafting procedure necessary?

As a 79761 periodontist, we warn patients of the seriousness of resorption. When a tooth is lost, the jaw will no longer receive stimuli in that particular area. This sends a signal to the body that the jawbone is not fulfilling its duties and the calcium there is no longer necessary. As a result, resorption occurs due to calcium being leached from the jaw to be used in other areas of the body. This creates a problem since it weakens the jaw and can also give you a sunken and aged appearance. Simultaneously, when you go to replace missing teeth with dental implants, you may no longer have the density required to support them. The best way to combat this and prepare the mouth for dental implants is a bone grafting or sinus augmentation procedure.

What are the reasons for bone loss?

As a periodontist, we find that bone loss is typically due to tooth loss and gum disease.

Are there any other reasons to have a sinus augmentation?

Yes, if you want to visit our Odessa, TX office for dental implants but your sinuses are too close together, you might benefit from this procedure.

Whose bone is used in a sinus augmentation procedure?

At Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we often recommend that patients use their own bone, and very often, this is taken from the hip. Otherwise, you could use synthetic bone to complete the procedure.

What steps are taken in a bone grafting or sinus augmentation procedure?

When you visit our 79761 office for a bone grafting procedure, we will first numb the area and give you anesthesia. We will then cut open the gum tissue so we can expose the space where your tooth once was. By raising the tissue and exposing the jaw, we can then create a small opening in the bone itself before pushing your sinus membrane up. We can then pack the area with natural or synthetic bone before placing a tissue back down and suturing it in place. You may need to use gauze in order to reduce the bleeding. Furthermore, you can reduce the swelling by taking ibuprofen and using ice packs for a day or two. Once done, however, the bone graft should be healed, and in around six months, you will have the ability to replace your missing teeth with dental implants as you initially planned on.

Schedule a Consultation With an Odessa Periodontist

At Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we can answer any questions you may have. To schedule an appointment with our Odessa, TX office, call (432) 538-3318.