A sinus augmentation is performed when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw or the sinuses are too close to the jaw for dental implants to be placed. During this procedure, your periodontist will add bone between your jaw and sinus, in addition to lifting the sinus membrane to make room for the extra bone.
Periodontal disease can cause bone loss, and because of the anatomy of the skull, the back of the upper jaw naturally has less bone than the lower jaw. If your periodontal disease has left you with too little bone in your upper jaw, a sinus augmentation can allow your periodontist to create a healthy foundation for an implant to be placed.
The Procedure
Your periodontist will cut into the gum tissue and lift it away from the bone. A small area of bone will be removed, allowing your periodontist to gently push the sinus membrane up and away from the jaw. Then, a bone graft will be placed into the space where the sinus membrane was. Once in place, the gum tissue is stitched closed, and the bone graft material will begin to grow, filling in the areas of lost bone. When the grafted material fully meshes with the existing bone, your periodontist will be able to place your implant, returning your mouth to an ideal state of function and aesthetics.