When it comes to dental implants in Richmond, or indeed anywhere else in the country patients need to be aware that there may be other procedures that need to be carried out first of all, before implants can be placed. One of these procedures is a sinus lift. So what exactly is it and why do you need it done?
Sometimes when patients seek treatment for dental implants there isn’t sufficient bone to properly anchor or secure the implant into. This is often the case in areas such as the upper jaw where the bone is usually softer. As such the bone tissue often degenerates or shrinks when natural teeth (particularly molars) are removed. At the same time the maxillary sinus which is located above the floor in the upper jaw will increase in size causing the bony ridge to resorb more. When this happens a simple procedure known as a sinus lift is needed in order to lift the membrane back into position whilst increasing the amount of space needed to anchor the implants securely into.
So how do you know if you need a sinus graft?
Here at Sheen Dental, before we even attempt to fit a dental implant in Richmond we make sure that a thorough oral examination is carried out. Hi-tech equipment such as CT scans take a 3 dimensional cross section of your mouth and from these we can spot important factors such as bone depth and height. As a result we’ll know fairly quickly whether you need a sinus graft prior to fitting implants.
What does the procedure entail?
In essence the process is relatively simple but delicate. A small window or flap of skin is cut on the maxillary sinus itself. The membrane is then pushed up into place and the sinus floor is replaced using a tried and tested bone graft procedure. Healing takes around 6 months and sinus lift patients will be expected to rest for at least 2 weeks, restraining from anything active such as sport. Slight pain may be experienced during the first week of recovery but can be eradicated using normal pain relief medication. In addition antibiotics and nasal sprays may well also be used to reduce any chance of nasal congestion.
Are there any possible complications?
Like any kind of surgery, it can never be guaranteed to be totally complication free. As such, ongoing sinusitis, infection, bone graft failure and even implant failure can never be entirely ruled out; although it’s fair to say that most procedures are carried out without a hitch and complications are rare.
If you want to find out more about the sinus graft procedure or anything at all about dental implants in Richmond, then visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk or contact us on 020 8876 5277 today.