Sinus Lift Surgery in Ottawa: Bone for Upper Implants at BluSky Dental
Creating the foundation for successful dental implants
Missing upper back teeth often means insufficient bone for dental implants. At BluSky Dental Holland Cross, sinus lift surgery creates the foundation you need by adding bone to the upper jaw. This specialized procedure opens the door to dental implants when bone loss would otherwise make them impossible.
Serving Westboro, Hintonburg, Wellington West, Little Italy, and Downtown Ottawa with expert sinus lift surgery.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the molar and premolar areas. It's performed by:
- Creating a small window in the lateral sinus wall
- Carefully elevating the sinus membrane upward
- Placing bone graft material in the created space
- Allowing 4-9 months for healing and integration
This additional bone provides the foundation necessary for successful dental implant placement.
Why Is a Sinus Lift Needed?
Sinus Anatomy
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces above your upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost:
- The sinus tends to expand (pneumatization)
- Bone resorbs from below (natural atrophy)
- Available bone height decreases
Implant Requirements
Dental implants need adequate bone height and density to:
- Achieve primary stability
- Integrate successfully
- Function long-term
When bone height is insufficient, a sinus lift creates the needed space.
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Pre-Surgical Planning
Using 3D CBCT imaging at our Holland Cross office, we assess:
- Current bone height
- Sinus anatomy and health
- Optimal graft amount
- Surgical approach
Learn more about 3D Digital Imaging →
Day of Surgery
Anesthesia:
Local anesthesia ensures comfort. Sedation is available for anxious patients or longer procedures.
Surgical Access:
A small incision in the gum creates access to the lateral sinus wall. A small window is created in the bone.
Membrane Elevation:
The sinus membrane is carefully lifted from the sinus floor, creating space beneath it.
Bone Graft Placement:
Bone graft material—your own bone, donor bone, or synthetic material—is placed in the created space.
Closure:
The site is sutured closed. Total procedure time is typically 60-90 minutes per side.
Learn more about Dental Surgery →
Recovery
First 2 Weeks:
- Avoid blowing nose forcefully
- Sneeze with mouth open
- Don't use straws
- Sleep with head elevated
- Take medications as prescribed
Weeks 2-4:
- Sutures dissolve or are removed
- Swelling subsides
- Gradual return to normal activities
Months 2-9:
- Bone graft integrates
- Periodic monitoring
- Implant placement when ready
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
Lateral Window Sinus Lift
The traditional approach accessing through the cheek side of the upper jaw. Best for:
- Significant bone augmentation needed
- Very thin existing bone
- Multiple implant sites
Osteotome Sinus Lift (Internal)
A less invasive approach through the implant site itself. Suitable when:
- Moderate bone height exists
- Single implant planned
- Smaller augmentation needed
We determine the best approach based on your specific anatomy and needs.
Benefits of Sinus Lift Surgery
Enables Implants
The primary benefit—making dental implants possible when bone loss would otherwise prevent them.
Stable Foundation
Properly performed sinus lifts provide excellent long-term foundation for implant success.
Improved Function
Once healed and implants placed, you regain full chewing function in the upper back area.
Facial Support
Restored bone helps maintain facial structure in the upper jaw area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Temporary sinus stuffiness is common. Long-term, properly healed sinus lifts don't negatively affect sinus function. We evaluate sinus health before surgery and address any concerns.
Sometimes, if enough existing bone allows immediate implant stability. Otherwise, the graft must heal before implant placement.
Active sinus infection, chronic sinusitis, or other conditions may require treatment before sinus lift surgery. We coordinate with ENT specialists when needed.
Schedule Your Sinus Lift Consultation
Don't let bone loss prevent dental implants. At BluSky Dental Holland Cross, expert sinus lift surgery creates the foundation for your new teeth. Our Westboro location serves patients from throughout Ottawa.
Call: (613) 728-1511
Address: 20 – 1620 Scott Street, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4S7
At BluSky we BEElieve in bringing life to your smile. 🐝