What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift is a specialized bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area beneath the sinus cavity, creating enough height to place dental implants in the upper back teeth safely. The maxillary sinuses sit just above the upper molars, and when teeth in this area are lost, the bone often becomes too thin for implants without first lifting the sinus floor and adding bone.
We recommend a sinus lift when imaging shows insufficient bone height in the upper back jaw, which is one of the most common reasons patients are told they cannot get implants. In most of these cases, a sinus lift makes implants possible.
Patients typically come to us for a sinus lift after losing upper back teeth, after long-term denture wear, or after another provider has said they do not have enough bone for upper implants. We hear that often, and in most cases, we can change the answer.
Benefits, Why MD Periodontics
- Makes upper back implants possible, even when other providers have said the bone is too thin
- Restores full chewing function. The upper molars do most of the heavy chewing, and replacing them transforms how you eat and feel
- Preserves facial structure, bone loss in the upper jaw changes the shape of the midface, and grafting protects your natural profile
- Uses advanced minimally invasive techniques, including lateral window and crestal approaches, matched to your specific anatomy
- Whole body healing focus, we use biocompatible grafting materials and support your nutrition and immune system to help your body regenerate optimally
- Beverly Hills specialist expertise, Dr. Moshrefi has performed countless successful sinus lifts with advanced surgical training, and Dr. Daneshmand brings USC-trained precision and a holistic approach to every plan we design together
Who Is a Candidate?
Most patients with insufficient bone height in the upper back jaw are candidates for a sinus lift. The right approach depends on how much bone is present, the condition of your sinuses, and your overall health, all of which we evaluate carefully.
You may be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have lost one or more upper back teeth and want implants
- Have been told you do not have enough bone for upper implants
- Have worn upper dentures for years and noticed jaw shrinkage
- Have advanced gum disease that has damaged the upper back bone
- Are in generally good health and committed to good home care
- Want a permanent, fixed solution rather than dentures
Patients with chronic sinus infections, untreated sinusitis, uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking habits, certain autoimmune conditions, or medications that affect bone healing may need additional evaluation or preparatory care before treatment.
The Process
- Consultation and 3D Imaging. We begin with a comprehensive exam, a full medical history review, and a 3D cone-beam CT scan. This shows us your sinus anatomy, exact bone height, and the safest, most effective approach for your case.
- Personalized Treatment Plan. Together, we map out your case, including the grafting technique, materials, and whether implants can be placed at the same time or after healing. We review the timeline, sedation options, and how the plan fits your broader wellness goals.
- Sinus Lift Procedure. Using precise surgical techniques, we gently lift the sinus membrane and place graft material in the created space. Most procedures are completed comfortably under local anesthesia, with sedation available for patients who prefer extra comfort.
- Healing and Regeneration. Your body slowly replaces the graft material with your own natural bone over 4 to 9 months. We monitor healing with follow-up visits and imaging as needed to confirm that the bone is mature and ready.
- Implant Placement. Once the new bone is fully integrated, we place your implants in a strong, healthy foundation. In some cases, implants are placed at the same time as the sinus lift when bone height allows.
Recovery and What to Expect
Most patients return to normal activities within 24 to 72 hours. Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common for the first few days and respond well to ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Some patients notice mild pressure or congestion in the sinus area, which is normal and short-lived.
Aftercare basics:
- Stick to soft foods for the first week
- Avoid the surgical site when brushing for several days, then resume gentle cleaning
- Rinse with warm salt water as we direct
- Skip strenuous exercise for 5 to 7 days
- Do not blow your nose forcefully for at least 2 weeks
- Sneeze with your mouth open to protect the graft
- Avoid drinking through straws, which create pressure changes
- Avoid smoking, which dramatically reduces graft success
- Avoid air travel for 1 to 2 weeks if possible
- Keep all follow-up appointments so we can monitor regeneration
Call our office if you experience heavy bleeding that does not slow within an hour, severe pain not relieved by medication, fever over 101°F, persistent nasal drainage from the surgical site, sudden swelling that worsens after day three, or any sinus symptoms that feel like a worsening infection.
FAQ
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report far less discomfort than they expected. We offer sedation options for patients who prefer extra comfort during the procedure.
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report far less discomfort than they expected. We offer sedation options for patients who prefer extra comfort during the procedure.
Most sinus lifts mature over 4 to 9 months before implants can be placed, depending on the size of the graft and the amount of natural bone present. In select cases, implants can be placed at the same time as the lift.
Many dental and medical plans offer partial coverage for sinus lifts, especially when medically necessary. Our team verifies your benefits and clearly explains your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
A lateral window approach accesses the sinus from the side of the jaw and is used for larger grafts. A crestal approach goes through the implant site itself and is used for smaller lifts. Your 3D scan tells us which is right for your case.
Many dental and medical plans offer partial coverage for bone grafting, especially when it is medically necessary or related to gum disease. Our team verifies your benefits and explains your out-of-pocket costs clearly before treatment begins.
Sometimes. When there is sufficient existing bone to stabilize an implant, we can perform the lift and place the implant in a single procedure. When the bone is very thin, we lift first, allow it to heal, then place implants.
No. The procedure does not change your sinus function or your breathing. Some patients notice mild temporary pressure or congestion during healing, but normal sinus function returns quickly.
Graft material can come from your own body, a tissue bank, an animal source, or a synthetic ceramic. We discuss the options openly and choose what best fits your case, your health, and your personal values, including metal-free and biologically minded options.
Sinus lifts have a very high success rate when performed by a trained specialist. Failure is rare and usually linked to smoking, uncontrolled health conditions, or sinus infection. When issues do arise, they are almost always correctable.
Without enough bone, upper back implants cannot be placed safely. Patients are then limited to dentures, partials, or leaving the gap, which often leads to further bone loss, drifting teeth, and changes in facial shape.
Sinus lifts are an advanced periodontal surgery that requires deep knowledge of bone biology, sinus anatomy, and regenerative techniques. Dr. Moshrefi and Dr. Daneshmand perform these procedures regularly at MD Periodontics, with the training and tools to handle even complex cases.
Yes. We offer a range of biocompatible grafting materials and design every plan around supporting your immune system, nutrition, and overall healing. A healthy upper jaw also reduces the risk of chronic infection and supports better long-term wellness.
