Sinus pain is a prevalent issue that affects millions of people each year. In addition, the loss of muscle mass surrounding one’s upper jaw can contribute negatively to one’s appearance. Other people suffer from dental conditions like periodontitis. So when is a sinus lift necessary?
Fortunately, there are options available for those who are suffering from these types of issues. As such, it’s important to recognize when a sinus lift surgery is called for.
When Is a Sinus Lift Necessary?
If you suspect that you might be able to benefit from a sinus lift, but aren’t quite sure, then take a look at this overview on how to decide when this type of procedure is necessary.
What Occurs During a Sinus Lift?
During a sinus lift, a physician performs a bone graft that focuses on the part of the jawbone that’s close to the sinuses. It’s a type of procedure that uniquely focuses on areas of the upper jaw that have been affected by bone loss.
A sinus lift uses natural and synthetic materials to stimulate your body’s natural response, generating lost bone mass. When a sinus lift is performed properly, it can have a wide range of benefits.
Am I a Good Candidate For a Sinus Lift?
Most patients who are interested will be found to be a good candidate for a sinus lift, although since it’s an invasive surgery, you’ll have to consider whether you have any prohibitive characteristics.
These include things like chronic conditions of the heart and lungs, as well as more severe dental conditions. Most patients who receive treatment will find themselves able to go home the same day that they have the surgery.
After the surgery itself, there’s usually a recovery period. This recovery period can sometimes end up being up to six months long. It’s good to ensure that you have this kind of time to give to an extended and lengthy recovery period.
When an Implant is Needed in the Molar or Premolar Areas
These types of implants are perhaps the main reason patients come in seeking sinus lifts. The implant procedure isn’t able to function properly without a strong supporting bone structure. The success of this entire field of procedures is highly dependent on the presence of a strong jaw structure.
Enlarged Sinuses
Sometimes, the sinuses become enlarged due to a number of possible reasons. Some of the more common ones include the natural aging process and chronic sinusitis. When this happens, a sinus lift may help prevent further disruption to these delicate parts of the body.
To Prevent Future Loss
The health of one’s teeth and face is a highly interdependent system that can be disrupted quite easily when there’s tooth loss and decay. One battered tooth can cause a domino effect that impacts the rest of the mouth.
A sinus lift can step in and give this area of the mouth and face a buffer. This then can restore a sense of health and symmetry to this part of the mouth.
Overall, there’s a strong chance that a sinus lift will be able to halt further damage to this part of your body if successfully completed.
Determining Whether or Not You Need a Sinus Lift
Determining whether or not you need a sinus lift can be done at a pre-surgical consultation with your physician. During this time, you’ll discuss every relevant issue concerning your upcoming operation.
Some of the things that will be discussed include your medical history and any history of surgeries that you may have undertaken recently.
You can share any lifestyle habits or dietary supplements you’re currently taking to determine if you have mitigating risk factors.
Since a sinus lift is technically an oral procedure, you might also have to have some X-rays taken of your teeth and mouth to determine the level of decay present in this part of your body.
The Sinus Lift Specialists of Southern California
The Smile Specialists and team of oral health specialists are totally prepared to offer you the best experience available in your own sinus health journey. If you’re interested in discussing whether or not a sinus lift is right for you going forward, contact The Smile Specialists today in order to make an appointment.