Sinus Augmentation in Round Rock, Texas
At Smile Solutions Dentistry, we understand that losing teeth can cause a significant impact on your oral health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. While dental implants are often the go-to solution for restoring missing teeth, some patients may face a challenge when it comes to having enough bone density to support these implants.
Bone loss, whether due to missing teeth or periodontal disease, can make it difficult to place dental implants without additional procedures. In such cases, sinus augmentation, also known as a sinus lift surgery, may be necessary to ensure that the implants have a strong foundation.
What is Sinus Augmentation?
Sinus augmentation is a specialized procedure designed to add bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars, which is often the area most affected by bone loss. This procedure is often required when the sinus cavities have expanded into the space where the upper teeth once were, causing a lack of bone density. The goal of sinus lift surgery is to create enough room for the bone to grow and support dental implants.
Sinus augmentation is typically necessary when there is significant bone loss in the upper jaw, and placing a dental implant directly into the available bone would risk implant failure. By adding bone to the upper jaw, we can create a strong base for implants and help patients achieve long-lasting, stable tooth replacements.
Why Do You Need Sinus Lift Surgery?
When teeth are lost, the jawbone in the area where the tooth used to be begins to deteriorate due to the lack of stimulation. Without the roots of the teeth, the bone begins to shrink, and this is especially problematic in the upper jaw, where the maxillary sinus cavities can expand into the area, further reducing bone volume. For some patients, this bone loss is severe enough that there is simply not enough bone left to place dental implants without additional help. Some of the most common reasons a sinus lift surgery may be recommended include:
Missing Teeth in the Upper Jaw
Long-term missing teeth in the upper jaw can lead to bone loss, making it difficult to place dental implants without additional bone grafting.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease can cause the destruction of bone tissue, leading to inadequate bone density for implant placement.
Proximity of the Sinus Cavities
In some cases, the maxillary sinuses are too close to the upper jaw, preventing proper placement of implants without intervention.
The Sinus Augmentation Procedure
When Dr. B determines that sinus augmentation is necessary for successful dental implants, the procedure typically involves several steps.
Request AppointmentConsultation and Planning
Dr. B will begin by conducting a thorough evaluation, which may include X-rays or CT scans to assess the amount of bone in the upper jaw and the proximity of the sinus cavities. This helps us plan for the amount of bone needed and determine the best approach.
Incision and Exposure
The surgery begins with an incision in the gum tissue where the molars and premolars used to be. This allows Dr. B to access the bone and create a small window in the bone structure.
Sinus Membrane Lift
Once the bone is exposed, Dr. B will gently lift the sinus membrane to make space for the new bone. This allows us to place bone graft material in the area, filling the space between the jawbone and the sinus cavity.
Bone Grafting
After the sinus membrane is lifted, bone graft material is placed into the newly created space. This bone can be sourced from the patient’s own body, cadaver bone, or even cow bone, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences.
Suturing
The gum tissue is then sutured back into place to close the incision, and the healing process begins.
Healing and Integration
Following the surgery, it typically takes between four to nine months for the new bone to fully heal and integrate with the surrounding bone. Once the bone has adequately healed, Dr. B will proceed with the placement of dental implants, ensuring that they are securely anchored into the newly developed bone structure.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
After sinus augmentation, it is essential to follow Dr. B’s post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing. Patients may experience mild swelling, discomfort, or bleeding, especially within the first few days of the procedure. Most patients recover quickly, but it’s crucial to avoid any activities that could disrupt the healing process.
Some key aftercare tips include:
- Rest: It’s essential to get plenty of rest to help the body heal.
- Pain Management: Mild pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications as prescribed by Dr. B.
- Saline Spray: To keep the nasal passages moist and promote healing, patients may be instructed to use a saline nasal spray.
- Avoid Dislodging Bone Graft Material: Avoid blowing your nose or engaging in strenuous activities that could cause the bone graft material to dislodge.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Dr. B will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure that the bone is integrating as expected.
In some cases, patients may need additional appointments to check on the healing process and ensure that there are no complications.
If you are considering dental implants but have been told you lack enough bone, sinus lift surgery may be the solution to restore your oral health and smile. Contact Smile Solutions Dentistry today to schedule your consultation with Dr. B and learn more about how sinus augmentation can help you achieve a successful dental implant procedure.
LOCATED IN ROUND ROCK, TEXAS
Smile Solutions Dentistry is a full-service, one-stop dental office where patients receive comprehensive care for all of their dental needs under one roof. Your smile is the reason for everything we do. Dr. Bruce Beheshtin, a board-certified dentist, leads our practice. With years of experience, Dr. Beheshtin is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to each and every patient. We are proud to serve the communities of Austin, Round Rock, and Georgetown. With free parking and multilingual staff, we strive to make dentistry as convenient and stress-free as possible.
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Wednesday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Thursday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Friday | 9:00am - 5:00pm |
| Saturday & Sunday | Closed |
| Emergency Services | By Appointment Only |
We are located in the heart of the Teravista community near the Teravista Golf Club, behind the Round Rock Outlet Mall.
Sinus Augmentation FAQs
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How do I know if I need a sinus lift?
If you have significant bone loss in your upper jaw, especially in the area of the molars or premolars, Dr. B will evaluate your jaw using X-rays or CT scans to determine whether a sinus lift is necessary before proceeding with dental implants. -
Is sinus augmentation painful?
Sinus lift surgery is typically done under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. After surgery, mild discomfort, swelling, and bleeding are common, but these can be managed with medication and proper aftercare. -
How long does it take to recover from sinus lift surgery?
The recovery period varies, but most patients experience healing within four to nine months before implants can be placed. The healing time allows the grafted bone to integrate fully with your jaw. -
Can I get dental implants immediately after sinus lift surgery?
Typically, dental implants are not placed immediately after sinus lift surgery. The bone graft requires several months to heal and integrate with your jawbone before implants can be placed. -
Are there any risks with sinus augmentation?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks such as infection, sinus membrane perforation, or failure of the bone graft. However, these risks are relatively rare, and Dr. B will take every precaution to minimize them during the procedure.
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Full-Service Dental Office
Dr.B is able to perform everything from routine cleanings and preventive care, to more advanced procedures like dental implants, root canal therapy, full mouth fixed dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and clear aligners. This all-inclusive approach allows patients to avoid referrals to multiple specialists, saving them time, money, and the stress of having to visit multiple offices.
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With his extensive training and commitment to staying at the forefront of dental technology, Dr. B ensures that each patient receives the highest quality care, tailored to their unique needs, all within the comfort and convenience of his trusted dental practice. Whether it’s a simple filling, a complex extraction, or a complete smile makeover, Dr. B has the skills and experience to handle it all.
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