What Is a Sinus Lift and Who Needs It for a Dental Implant Procedure?

A dental implant needs a strong, healthy foundation in the jaw to stay secure for many years. For patients missing upper back teeth, the bone in that area is often too thin to support an implant. This is where a sinus lift becomes important. A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, is a procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw so an implant can be placed safely and predictably.

Why a Sinus Lift May Be Necessary

The roots of the upper molars sit close to the maxillary sinuses. When these teeth are removed, the bone around them begins to shrink. Over time, the sinus may expand downward into the space where the roots once were. This often leaves too little bone to hold a dental implant securely.

A sinus lift gently raises the sinus floor and adds bone material beneath it. This creates a strong platform for implant placement.

A sinus lift may be needed for several reasons:

• Tooth Loss: Bone shrinks after a tooth is removed. Studies show up to 25 percent bone loss in the first year.
• Periodontal Disease: Gum disease weakens the bone over time.
• Naturally Large Sinuses: Some patients simply have less bone in the upper jaw.
• Trauma or Infection: Past injuries or chronic infections can reduce bone height.

Without enough bone, an implant may not integrate well. A sinus lift improves stability and expands the number of patients who can qualify for implants.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for a sinus lift if:

• You’re replacing missing upper molars or premolars with implants
• A 3D scan shows low bone height in the back of your upper jaw
• You’ve been missing teeth for several years
• You have bone loss from periodontal disease

At Ora Dental Implant Studio, we use advanced imaging to evaluate bone levels and determine whether a sinus lift is needed before implant placement. Patients from Elk Grove, Sacramento, and nearby communities rely on our expertise to guide them through each step.

Advanced Technology for Safe, Precise Treatment

Patients choose Ora Dental Implant Studio because we use the latest tools to make every procedure more accurate and comfortable. Our technology includes:

• 3D CBCT Imaging & Digital Planning for precise evaluation of sinus anatomy
• Computer-Guided Implant Surgery for smaller incisions and faster healing
• Same-Day Teeth Options for eligible patients wanting immediate results
• Minimally Invasive Techniques that improve comfort and shorten recovery

Our state-of-the-art approach ensures each visit is efficient, custom-tailored, and focused on long-term success.

Why Experience Matters

A sinus lift is a delicate procedure that benefits from a skilled implant team. When done correctly, it can greatly improve the odds of long-term implant success. Dr. Devan Dalla and our team at Ora Dental Implant Studio have extensive experience with sinus lifts and implant placement. Patients throughout Elk Grove and Sacramento trust us for predictable outcomes and a calm, supportive experience.

Restore Your Smile With Confidence

If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for dental implants, a sinus lift may open the door to treatment. Our expert team uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive methods to create safe, lasting results. Contact Ora Dental Implant Studio today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a strong, confident smile.