Alexandria Sinus Augmentation Oral Surgeon

Dentist Performing Jaw and Sinus Surgery to Prepare for Dental Implants in Alexandria, Virginia

While dental implants can provide many benefits for people who have missing teeth, they require a strong and stable foundation in the jawbone. Replacement teeth need to be anchored securely in place, but in some cases, there may not be enough bone in the upper jaw to support implants. For patients who are missing teeth in the parts of the upper jaw that are next to the sinuses, procedures may need to be performed to ensure that there is enough bone to keep implants secure.

At Alexandria Dental Art, we provide sinus augmentation procedures to increase bone volume in the upper jaw and create the support necessary for long-lasting dental implants. This type of oral surgery is also known as a sinus lift, and it is an important step for many patients who are preparing for dental implants. By lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material, sinus augmentation can help ensure that implants will have the stability they need to function properly for decades.

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What Is Sinus Augmentation?

The sinuses are hollow spaces located just above the upper teeth. When teeth in this area are lost, the bone beneath the sinus may shrink or become too thin to hold an implant securely. In some cases, the sinus cavity itself may naturally sit low, reducing the available space for implant placement.

Sinus augmentation may be recommended when:

• Bone loss has occurred after tooth extraction or long-term tooth loss.
• Gum disease has led to reduced bone volume in the upper jaw.
• The position of the sinuses limits the amount of bone available for implant placement.
• Additional bone support will be necessary to ensure the long-term success of dental implants.

Sinus Augmentation Procedures

Our dentist performs sinus augmentation procedures while focusing on maintaining the comfort of patients at all times. The process typically involves:

1. Consultation and Imaging

Our dentist will begin with a complete exam, using X-rays and other images to assess the volume of bone in your jaw and the anatomy of your sinuses. This will ensure that we can plan the procedure and take the proper measures to increase bone volume.

2. Anesthesia

Local anesthesia will typically be used to keep the area numb during the procedure. We can also provide general anesthesia if you prefer to be put to sleep while surgery is being performed.

3. Accessing the Sinus

A small incision will be performed in the gums to allow access to the sinus floor.

4. Lifting Membrane

The membrane in the sinus will be gently raised upward, creating space in the sinus cavity where the bone in the upper jawbone can be augmented.

5. Graft Placement

The jawbone will be grafted using natural, synthetic, or donor bone that will be placed into the newly created space. This graft will integrate with the natural bone over several months.

6. Healing and Follow-Up

The gum tissue will be sutured, and you will be given detailed aftercare instructions. The grafted bone will fuse with the jawbone, which can take around four to six months. Once healing is complete, the area will be ready to support dental implants.

Benefits of Sinus Augmentation

A sinus lift procedure can help improve your overall oral health by:

• Creating bone support to ensure that dental implants can be placed correctly
• Ensuring the long-term success of dental implants by providing a stable foundation
• Restoring oral function by enabling implants that will allow for natural chewing and speaking
• Improving your appearance by replacing missing teeth with natural-looking restorations
• Protecting your dental health by preventing further bone loss and maintaining a full smile

How Alexandria Dental Art Supports Patients

We combine advanced technology with compassionate care to make sinus augmentation as straightforward and comfortable as possible. Our team will guide you through every step of the procedure, from your initial consultation to the placement of dental implants. Through our personalized treatment planning, we will make sure you always understand what to expect and what steps you can take to maintain good oral health. Our goal is to provide you with a strong, healthy smile that will last for the rest of your life.

Contact Our Alexandria, VA Sinus Augmentation Dentist

At Alexandria Dental Art, our oral surgeon can provide sinus lift procedures designed to prepare your upper jaw for implants and restore your oral health. Contact our Alexandria sinus augmentation oral surgeon by calling 703-566-8799 to set up a consultation.