Thinking about dental implants in the upper back jaw but worried you were told “there isn’t enough bone”? You’re not alone. Because the sinus naturally expands as we age and bone can shrink after tooth loss, many people in Brentwood and Westwood need a sinus lift (sinus augmentation) before placing implants. The good news: today’s techniques are precise, comfortable, and remarkably predictable when planned by an experienced periodontist.
Why Bone Matters for Upper Molar Implants
Dental implants need sufficient bone height and density to be stable. In the upper molar area, the sinus floor may drop into the space where roots once were. If the bone height is too thin, placing an implant risks penetrating the sinus. A sinus lift gently raises the sinus membrane and adds graft material, creating the vertical space your implant needs.
Two Main Approaches
- Lateral window sinus lift: Used when available bone is limited. We open a small side window, elevate the membrane, and place bone grafting material to build height.
- Crestal (internal) sinus lift: Ideal when only a few millimeters of lift are needed. We access the sinus through the implant site and gently nudge the membrane upward before placing graft and, often, the implant.
What to Expect During Treatment
After a detailed CBCT-based evaluation, we’ll recommend either a staged approach (graft first, implant after healing) or a single-stage approach (graft and implant together) depending on bone quality. With local anesthesia and sedation dentistry for added comfort when desired, the procedure is typically well-tolerated. Most patients return to desk work the next day.
Recovery & Home Care Tips
- Expect mild pressure or congestion for a few days—this is normal and temporary.
- Avoid nose blowing and sneezing with your mouth closed; open-mouth sneezes protect the graft.
- Use prescribed rinses and medications exactly as directed to support comfortable healing.
- Keep follow-up visits so we can monitor integration and green-light the restoration timeline.
How Long Until I Get My New Tooth?
For lateral lifts, grafts commonly heal for several months before placing implants. With internal lifts, we can often place the implant the same day, then allow it to integrate before adding the crown. Your exact timeline depends on your bone biology and the chewing forces in the area.
Benefits That Last
By rebuilding bone in the sinus area, you unlock treatment options that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. You’ll be able to smile, laugh, and eat confidently—and help protect adjacent teeth by avoiding a long bridge. When cared for with excellent oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings, implants can be a long-term investment in comfort and health.
Is a Sinus Lift Safe?
Yes. In trained hands, sinus augmentation is a routine procedure with a very high success rate. We use atraumatic techniques, sterile protocols, and careful imaging to reduce risk. If we find a sinus condition that needs medical attention first (like chronic sinusitis), we’ll coordinate with your physician or ENT to ensure ideal timing.
Why Choose Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Our Los Angeles office focuses on implant-related care every day, from grafting to precise implant placement and follow-up. You’ll receive a clear explanation of every step, photos and imaging where helpful, and a dedicated point of contact for your questions. That way, the process feels as easy—and as comfortable—as possible.
Wondering if you’re a candidate? Call Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (310) 473-8770 or Contact Us to schedule a consultation in Brentwood/Westwood.