The maxillary sinus sits inside the upper jaw just above the roots of upper back teeth. When upper molars are extracted and not replaced, the bone below the sinus shrinks while the sinus itself expands downward (pneumatization). What was 12mm of usable bone can become 3–5mm with sinus directly above — too little for a traditional implant. A sinus lift re-establishes 8–12mm of usable bone height.
Book Now
The right technique depends on how much native bone remains at the implant site.
Crestal ("internal") sinus lift: Less invasive, used when 5–8mm of native bone remains. Performed through the implant osteotomy site itself; graft material packed in; implant often placed same appointment. Healing ~3–4 months.
Lateral window sinus lift: More involved, used when less than 5mm of native bone remains. A small access window is created in the side of the upper jaw; sinus membrane elevated; larger graft volume placed. Implant placement may be simultaneous or staged 6–9 months later.
3D cone-beam CT imaging maps sinus dimensions, membrane thickness, and anatomical variations before surgery — non-negotiable for planning. Performed under IV sedation in nearly all cases; a lateral sinus lift takes 60–90 minutes per side. Post-op: avoid nose-blowing, sneezing through closed mouth, and pressure changes (flying, scuba) for 2–3 weeks.
Book NowMost patients return to normal activity within 3–5 days. Mild swelling common for 5–7 days, managed with cold then warm compresses. Integration period: 6–9 months (lateral), 3–4 months (crestal) — not painful, just maturation time.
Book Now
Crestal: 3–4 months before implant can support a prosthetic. Lateral: 6–9 months before final loading. Surgical recovery itself: 1–2 weeks.
Under IV sedation, the procedure itself is painless. Recovery involves mild-to-moderate swelling/discomfort for 3–7 days.
Some plans cover partially when documented as medically necessary for tooth replacement.
Active sinus infection must be treated first. Chronic sinusitis history is not necessarily a contraindication but requires ENT consultation.
Schedule a consultation at Tuscaloosa Dentures and Implants today.
Free Implant Consultation
Your consultation and 3D CBCT scan are completely free — so you know exactly where you stand before deciding anything.