If the jawbone has receded due to missing teeth or the size of patients sinus is large, dental Implants are only possible after the bone has been rebuilt. However, such bone augmentation ("sinus lift") not only prepares the jawbone for the insertion of implants, but also counteracts further degradation and stimulates its growth. We will be happy to explain the exact procedure to you and answer all your questions about the sinus lift in a personal consultation. Simply make an appointment at our dental practice in Zurich.
We are happy to be there for you!
Frequently asked questions about sinus lift
When is a sinus lift needed?
A sinus lift is used when the Jawbone has receded so much that there is not enough bone left to insert Dental implants strongly and safely. If the existing bone substance is not sufficient, most of the implants would be located in the (air-filled) maxillary sinus. However, they do not find sufficient support there.
Which material is used for bone augmentation?
There are various materials that are suitable as bone replacement material:
- Autogenous: the patient's own bone material
- Allogenic: prepared bone material from another individual
- Xenogenic: prepared bone material from a foreign (e.g. animal) individual
- Alloplastic: synthetic, non-biological bone material
What are the possible risks of bone augmentation?
Jawbone augmentation is associated with few risks. In rare cases - as with all surgical procedures - complications may occur in the form of redness or postoperative swelling, bleeding, inflammation or infection.
When can Dental implants be inserted after the sinus lift?
In most cases and when it is medically indicated we combine bone augmentation treatments with insertion dental implants in the same procedure.
If the bone is too weak and needs to be build to a large extend, dental implants can not be inserted in the same session. In these cases a healing time of 4-6 months is recommended before placing dental implants.
Another technique is the method of an internal sinus lift, where small amounts of bone needs to be build vertically and dental implants can be placed at the same time.
In both techniques a healing time of 3-4 months before placing a screw retained ceramic implant crown, is recommended. Bone cells need 3 months for 80% healing.
When will I be socially acceptable again and able to eat and drink after Bone augmentation?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. You should not eat or drink anything while the anaesthetic is in place, otherwise you could accidentally bite your cheek or tongue.
Your advantages of a sinus lift in our practice
![Zahnarzt Zürich Praxis Technologie](/fileadmin/user_upload/zahnarzt-zuerich-loewenplatz/media/praxis/zahnarzt-zuerich-technologie-scan.png)
- Treatment done by specialists
- 20 years+ of dental experience
- Modern clinic with air conditioning
- Comfortable state of the art dental treatment chairs with massage function
- 2D/3D Xrays for precice diagnostics and low radiation
- Enjoy your favorite Netflix program during treatment
What is a sinus lift?
The term sinus lift comes from the English and means "sinus floor elevation" or "sinus floor elevation". It refers to a special procedure for bone augmentation in the posterior upper Jaw. The aim is to increase bone volume in order to use this as a basis for implant anchoring. The bony floor of the maxillary sinus is thickened for this purpose.
How does a sinus lift work?
The first step is to assess your bones in detail. To do this, we use imaging procedures (e.g. 3D-X-rays), which provide information about the condition of your teeth and jaw. Based on the results, we will recommend a specific treatment for you. There are basically two different approaches: the internal and the external approach.
Internal (closed) access
This method is recommended if the height deficit of the jawbone is not very big. In this minimally invasive procedure, we enter the maxillary sinus in the same way as the implant that is to be inserted in the same session. The healing time for this procedure is around 3-4 months.
External (open) access
In the case of a larger height deficit (> 3 mm), the procedure must be performed via an external approach. To do this, we open the gums and expose the outside of the maxillary sinus wall ("bone window"). Once we have prepared this area, we push the bone upwards and fill the resulting cavity with suitable bone substitute material. If this results in a bone height of at least 3-5 millimeters, the implant can be anchored at the same time as the bone augmentation.
The sinus lift itself is usually performed under local anesthesia; general anesthesia is not usually necessary. As your dentist in Zurich, we will be happy to advise you on the individual procedures and their respective advantages.
What needs to be considered after a sinus lift?
A sinus lift is a surgical procedure, nevertheless a minimally invasive one. You should therefore initially take care of the treated area and avoid blowing your nose, for example. Caution is also advised when brushing your teeth. It is better to avoid the affected area for a short time and clean it with a special oral solution.
You should refrain from consuming alcohol and nicotine after the procedure, as both can slow down or impair wound healing. Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first week after treatment. This includes not only sporting activities, but also professional activities such as heavy lifting or similar.
If there is swelling in the affected area, it helps to cool the area (for example with a cool pack). If a rare small after bleeding occurs, you can stops this by carefully pressing a clean cotton pad or cloth onto the affected area.
Contact us
Zahnärzte am Löwenplatz
Seidengasse 15+20
8001 Zürich
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Monday, Tuesday, Friday
7:00 am to 5:00 pm
Wednesday, Thursday
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Zahnärzte am Löwenplatz Panorama
Seidengasse 20
8001 Zürich
on the third floor, elevator available.