Bone loss can be caused by trauma, tumours, cysts, bone disease or even tooth loss. Bone graft surgery is usually used to reattach a tooth that has moved or fallen out, to create a bone bed for an implant, or to strengthen the bone around the implant.

Where is the sinus located and how is the surgery performed?

The maxillary sinus, located in the upper jawbone and fills a large part of it. The sinus is located above the small and large molars. Following the loss of the molars, the bone tissue atrophies as the area is not under pressure due to the absence of teeth.

The procedure involves lifting the lower mucosa of the sinus by a few millimetres and filling the gap with bone substitute.

What to look out for after sinus lift (bone grafting) treatment?

As with all surgical procedures, there is a recovery time after a sinus lift. The treated area will be slightly painful and swollen, but by taking painkillers and antibiotics, it will heal in a few days and you can go back to your normal life. However, it is important to avoid blowing your nose and sneezing. These can dislodge the bone substitute or even tear open the wound left by the procedure. Bleeding from the mouth and nose may also occur in the days following oral surgery.

On the second day after the sinus lift, our oral surgeons will call you in for a check-up to examine the affected area and make sure everything went as planned.

The average recovery time is half a year, after which the implant can be placed. However, there are cases where a sinus lift and implantation can be done at the same time.