Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nathan Dancykier offer oral surgery in Towson, MD, to help patients improve their dental health. They ensure that patients feel comfortable during their procedures and even offer dental sedation for relaxing and painless care. Sinus augmentation and bone grafting are treatments that patients typically require before restorative dental procedures. These treatments ensure that patients have enough bone tissue to support implants, dental bridges, and dentures. Our experienced dentists will help coordinate your care for optimal results.
Sinus Lift
Your dentist will use a procedure called a sinus lift to strengthen the bone tissue in the upper jaw area. By adding bone to the upper jaw, patients can receive one or more dental implants. Dental implants need a good amount of bone to help keep them secure in the jaw. Poor bone density may result in implant failure.
The procedure involves making a small incision in another area of the mouth. Here we will remove a small portion of the bone tissue. During sinus augmentation treatment, we “lift” the area in the back of the mouth, exposing the bone beneath the gums.
Next, we add the grafted tissue to the existing bone. To complete the “lift,” we close off the area with sutures. The sinus lift procedure ensures that your implants are properly supported for the best treatment outcome. It creates more space for the implants to merge with the jawbone.
Bone Grafting
We also use bone grafting before dental implant treatment. If you are receiving dental bridges or dentures that are supported by implants, you may need grafting treatment. In most cases, we will use it after the tooth extraction. Your dentist will fill the now-empty socket with bone or a bone substitute. This is known as a tooth socket graft.
The first step in bone grafting treatment is making an incision in the gums. We take bone from the jaw or the upper palate and place the tissue onto the area which needs it. We then close the gum incision with sutures. For the best results, we will leave the bone to heal for about four months.
Recovering from Oral Surgery
After surgery, you will feel sore and numb. We suggest using an ice pack for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. Do not spit or rinse your mouth out after your surgery because this may make bleeding last longer. We will give you specific instructions on wound care after your procedure.
Most people will recover in a few days. However, each patient will react differently to the surgery. After one to two days, you can return to normal activity. However, we suggest refraining from physical activity for about two weeks after your surgery. If you experience a high level of pain or excess bleeding, please call our office as soon as possible.
Oral Surgical Procedures FAQs
How painful is a sinus lift?
Sinus lift procedures are typically not painful, but they can be uncomfortable. Some patients may experience more discomfort than others during the healing process. The extent of the sinus lift and the amount of bone graft material required can also influence the level of pain. It’s important to follow your post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
How long does a sinus lift procedure take?
The duration of a sinus lift procedure can vary depending on the individual case and the technique the dentist or oral surgeon uses. Generally, the surgery will take 1 to 2 hours to complete. However, this can be longer if you require bone grafting or other procedures. In addition, the length of the healing period will depend on the patient’s individual healing rate and the extent of the surgery. It’s best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon for a more accurate estimate in your specific case.
Does an oral surgeon perform a sinus lift before the bone graft?
Yes. The oral surgeon or dentist typically performs the sinus lift before a bone graft. The purpose of a sinus lift is to create space in the upper jaw to add bone graft material to increase the height and thickness of the jawbone. This provides a stable foundation for dental implants. The sinus lift procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane to make room for the bone graft material. Overall, a sinus lift is a preparatory procedure the oral surgeon performs before bone grafting to provide adequate bone support for dental implants.
How long does a sinus lift last?
The success and longevity of a sinus lift can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the bone graft material used, the patient’s overall health, and their oral hygiene habits. A successful sinus lift can last many years or even a lifetime if you maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings and follow proper post-operative care instructions. Consult with your dentist for personalized advice.
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
A bone graft typically takes two weeks to six months to fully heal. During this time, your dentist will monitor the graft closely. You should also follow all aftercare instructions carefully. For instance, avoid strenuous exercise or contact sports during the healing process. Additionally, the use of antibiotics may be necessary to ensure full healing.
How painful is a bone graft?
Bone grafting may involve some degree of pain and discomfort. The extent of the discomfort can vary depending on the patient and the surgery. Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort after the procedure. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers. With proper post-operative care and management, most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
Request an Oral Surgery Consultation
Do you need a dental restoration? Do you require bone grafting services? Call Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier at 410.324.2294 for comfortable care in Towson, MD. Be sure to schedule an appointment online. Feel free to ask our dentists any questions you may have about your specific treatment. They will be happy to assist you.