What is Sinus Augmentation?
The purpose of sinus augmentation is to increase the amount of bone available at the back of the upper jaw where molar teeth are missing. The sinuses occupy much of the space in this region and the aim of this surgery is to place a graft below the sinus lining to create a greater quantity of bone at the sinus floor.
How does Sinus Augmentation work?
Sinus augmentation is carried out in the dental chair with local anaesthetic. The graft is allowed to heal for a period of nine to twelve months. During this period the graft is replaced by new bone and once it has healed implants can then be placed. Sometimes implants can be placed at the same time as sinus augmentation.
What is Bone Augmentation?
When teeth are lost, the bone supporting them can resorb making it difficult to place implants. The amount of bone can be increased before the implant treatment begins. This is achieved by placing a bone graft material and a membrane to contain it below the tissues. This will create a new augmented bone height and width.