What Is a Sinus Lift?
When upper molars or premolars are removed, they often leave behind a thin wall of bone separating the mouth from the maxillary sinus—the air-filled space behind your cheeks and above your upper jaw. Unfortunately, this thin bone isn’t strong enough to support dental implants.
A sinus lift, also known as sinus augmentation, is a specialized bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw to support dental implants. By lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material in the newly created space, Dr. Sorensen can help you regain the bone volume necessary for successful, long-lasting implant placement.
Why a Sinus Lift May Be Necessary
You may need a sinus lift if you:
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Are missing molars or premolars in the upper jaw
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Have insufficient bone height in the back of your jaw
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Lost bone due to periodontal disease or injury
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Were born with a condition affecting upper jaw bone structure
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Are preparing for dental implants in the upper arch
Without enough bone support, dental implants can’t be safely placed or stabilized. A sinus lift makes it possible to move forward with implant treatment even when significant bone loss has occurred.
How the Sinus Lift Procedure Works
A sinus lift is typically performed as a standalone procedure but may be combined with implant placement depending on your case.
- A small incision is made near the area of missing teeth. Dr. Sorensen carefully opens the bone and gently lifts the sinus membrane upward.
- The space beneath the lifted sinus is filled with bone graft material to stimulate new bone growth.
- Over the next few months, your body will naturally generate new bone, creating a solid foundation for future dental implants.
Dr. Travis Sorensen is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with extensive experience performing sinus lifts and advanced bone grafting procedures. Our practice combines cutting-edge imaging, surgical precision, and patient-first care to ensure every sinus augmentation is safe, comfortable, and effective.
We’ll walk you through every step—from evaluation to recovery—so you can move forward with confidence.
