Sinus Augmentation

Home / Dental Implants / Sinus Augmentation
The maxillary sinus filters the air you breathe through your nasal passages and is located in proximity to the upper teeth. Often times, the upper molars are in close contact with the sinus floor. If a tooth is missing, the sinus floor can descend further down and shorten the length of the jaw bone.

When evaluating for an implant, sometimes the sinus floor needs to be moved upward in order for the implant to be properly placed.

Sinus grafting or augmentation is a procedure to place graft near the sinus to create space for an implant.

There are two methods of sinus augmentation commonly used:

  • Osteotome Sinus Elevation - During this procedure, the implant is placed and Dr. Brancheau will gently “tap” up the floor of the sinus with a small amount of graft material. This method is less invasive and the procedure only takes about 45 minutes to one hour.
  • Lateral Window Sinus Elevation - The sinus is accessed from the side and graft material placed to create more bone at the bottom of the sinus cavity. An implant may or may not be placed at the same time.

Sinus grafting is a very predictable procedure with a high rate of success. We will discuss which method is best for your case and make sure the process goes smoothly. Post-op instructions and expectations for each procedure will be outlined in detail during your consultation and planning appointment. A 3D CBCT is often taken to examine the sinus in detail and aid in the procedure.


Benefits of Sinus Augmentation

  • Allows an implant to be placed fully in bone, without invading the sinus

  • Predictable

Before & After Photos

Lynnwood Dental Implants

Case 1

A missing upper right molar with sinus in proximity. A lateral window sinus elevation was performed with implant placement, allowing the implant to be fully surrounding by quality bone, ready for restoration.
Lynnwood Dental Implants

Case 1

A missing upper right molar with sinus in proximity. A lateral window sinus elevation was performed with implant placement, allowing the implant to be fully surrounding by quality bone, ready for restoration.
Lynnwood Dental Implants

Case 2

The sinus floor has descended over time and is now touching the crest, leaving no room for implants. A lateral window graft was performed that is stable 6 months later and ready for 2 implants to be placed.
Lynnwood Dental Implants

Case 2

The sinus floor has descended over time and is now touching the crest, leaving no room for implants. A lateral window graft was performed that is stable 6 months later and ready for 2 implants to be placed.


Dental Implants


Quick Contact


What People Are Saying

I met Dr. Brancheau through my regular dentist who referred me. I had a bridge break and another tooth split. I was very hesitant to get implants because of how invasive I thought they were. Day of the surgery he was very careful to make sure I felt nothing and was comfortable for both the extraction and implant. Recovery was amazing! I had almost no swelling, no pain... the horror stories you may hear are only because they saw the wrong professional! A+++

Chris B.

Doctor Brancheau is taking care of my second round of tooth implants. Thus I have comparison experience. I appreciate his easy touch, the fact that he communicates every step of the procedure as we go along, and that his practice doesn't try to railroad patients into up-charges. His approach to implants is such that it minimizes patient discomfort and time of process. It's my impression that he can be trusted to recommend the exact dental care needed, that it will be correct and no more involved than necessary.

Gary S.

Dr. Brancheau showed excellent rapport working with me in developing a treatment plan, completing a bone graft, tooth extraction, and root planing. He showed incredible technique in his work and sincerely addressed my questions and concerns. Significantly improved my dental and overall health.

Anna W.

Dr. Brancheau explained my medical condition very well. He did an implant for me and I was very happy after the procedure. I really trust his decisions...honest and hard working.

Healthgrades

Thank you to Dr. Brancheau again for making the process easier.

Lois P.
Affiliations
Dr. Brian Brancheau is an active member of