Implants Requiring Bone Grafting and Sinus Lift

Dental implants are one of the most effective and permanent solutions for replacing lost teeth. However, in some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lifting may be required due to insufficient jaw bone. These procedures provide the bone support necessary for the successful placement and longevity of the implants. So when are these procedures necessary, how are they applied, and how does the healing process proceed? Here are the details:

What is Bone Graft and in What Situations is it Necessary?

Bone grafting is a procedure performed when the jawbone is not thick enough or dense enough to accommodate an implant. When an implant is not placed for a long time after a tooth is lost, bone tissue can melt over time. This is especially common in areas that have been without teeth for a long time. Bone grafting can be obtained from the patient's own body or synthetic materials to compensate for this deficiency. In this way, a solid and stable base is created for the implant to hold onto. Bone grafting is performed under local anesthesia and offers a painless experience for the patient.

When is Sinus Lift Performed?

Sinus lift is a procedure performed especially in cases where the back teeth are missing in the upper jaw. The upper jaw bone is weaker than the lower jaw and the sinus cavity can expand after tooth loss, thinning the bone tissue. This situation causes insufficient bone height for implant placement. In the sinus lift procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted up and a bone graft is placed underneath. In this way, the necessary bone height for implant placement is provided. Sinus lift is usually performed under local anesthesia and is a comfortable procedure for the patient. Mild swelling and discomfort are considered normal after the procedure, but these complaints subside within a few days.

Recovery Process & To-do List

After bone graft and sinus lift procedures, it may take several months for the bone tissue to heal and be ready for the implant. There are some important points that patients should pay attention to during this process. First of all, since smoking slows down bone healing, smoking should be avoided during this process. In addition, the nutrition and care rules recommended by the physician should be followed. Especially hard and hard-to-chew foods should be avoided and soft foods should be consumed. Mild swelling and pain after the procedure are considered normal, but a physician should be consulted if complaints increase. The medications prescribed by the physician should be used regularly and check-ups should not be skipped.

Bone graft and sinus lift procedures are methods that may be necessary before implant treatment and are applied to achieve successful results. Thanks to these procedures, even patients with insufficient jawbone can safely receive implant treatment. However, following your doctor's recommendations during this process is of great importance to accelerate the healing process and prevent complications. With proper planning and care, you can achieve a healthy, long-lasting implant treatment.

This text is intended to provide general information. The appropriate treatment method for each patient may vary, and therefore, a dentist who is an expert in the field should be consulted. Before making any decision regarding dental health, it is of great importance that you have a detailed examination and consultation with your physician. These articles are for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace professional medical advice.