Sinus Elevations – Western Reserve Periodontics

Sinus Elevations in Preparation for Dental Implants

Closed Sinus Elevation

In the upper back area, the position of the maxillary sinus can limit our ability to place an implant of proper length. Using specially designed instruments, the sinus lining can be elevated, the area grafted, and an implant placed at the same time. In the two examples below, the white lines represent the position of the sinus both before and after a “closed sinus elevation” procedure has been performed. After 4-6 months of healing, the top of the implant(s) is exposed, and your restorative dentist can begin fabrication of the crown(s). This procedure is performed under local anesthesia in our office with your comfort in mind

Missing Back Teeth Before Sinus Elevation

Hopeless Premolers

After Sinus Elevation and Implant Placement

Final Crowns Placed on Implants After Sinus Elevation

Open Sinus Elevation

In Fig. 1 the maxillary sinus border depicted by the white line clearly shows the lack of bone height available to place an implant. In this procedure, the sinus lining is pushed up through a small opening created on the side of the jaw. Bone is then added to increase the bony height available to place an implant. Six months after the sinus elevation has been performed (Fig. 2), implants can be placed (Fig. 3). The final restored case is shown in Figure 4. As with all of the procedures done in our office, these are performed with your comfort in mind.

Sinus Elevations in Preparation for Dental Implants

Closed Sinus Elevation

Open Sinus Elevation

Fig. 1

Fig. 3

Fig. 2

Fig. 4