Every person has two maxillary sinuses (right and left) that are located above the upper molars and premolars.  After the removal of tooth, the sinus cavity will gradually expand into the surrounding bone.  The available bone height (distance between gum and floor of sinus) is reduced as sinus expands. The minimum desire implant length at the molar and premolar area is 8mm.  Sinus Lift procedure is indicated when the available bone height is less than 8mm.

Sinus Lift is a surgery procedure that places bone graft into the sinus cavity.  This procedure can be accomplished with two different approaches:  “Lateral Window” and “Osteotome” technique. In general rule, “Osteotome” technique is recommended if the implant site has at least 5 mm of available bone height. “Lateral Window” technique is more suitable when the implant site has less than 5mm of existing bone height or multiple implants are scheduled.  Only doctor can determine the appropriate technique for a given situation.  In some instances, implants can be placed simultaneously with sinus lift procedure.

The following diagrams are illustration of the Sinus Lift Procedure with “Lateral Window” technique and “Osteotome” technique