
Dental Implants
Sinus Lift
Sinus Lift Explained
A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, is a specialized bone graft that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars, near the maxillary sinuses. It is performed when there is not enough bone height in the upper back jaw to support dental implants, a common situation because the sinus cavities sit close to this area and the bone naturally thins after upper teeth are lost. At Nova Dental Care of Chantilly, a sinus lift makes implant treatment possible for patients who would otherwise be told they are not candidates due to insufficient bone. During the procedure, the sinus membrane is gently lifted upward and bone graft material is placed in the space created beneath it. Over several months, this material develops into solid bone capable of anchoring implants securely. The sinus lift is a well-established, predictable procedure that has helped countless patients restore their upper teeth with implants. Depending on how much bone is needed, implants may sometimes be placed at the same time as the sinus lift, or after a healing period. It is frequently performed alongside other grafting procedures as part of a complete implant plan for the upper jaw.

Sinus Lift Approach
At Nova Dental Care of Chantilly, we approach the sinus lift as a precise, planned step that opens the door to implants where they otherwise would not be possible. We rely on detailed 3D imaging to map the sinus anatomy and bone before we begin, so the procedure is tailored to your specific structure. We perform the lift gently to protect the sinus membrane and explain each stage clearly. Our priority is creating a strong, healthy foundation for your upper implants while keeping you comfortable and well-informed throughout.

Four simple steps, every time.
From the moment you sit down to the moment you leave, here's what a routine cleaning and exam looks like at our Chantilly office.
Image
We take 3D scans to measure the available bone beneath the sinus and map the sinus anatomy precisely before planning the lift.
Lift
The sinus membrane is gently raised to create space, and bone graft material is carefully placed beneath it in the upper jaw.
Heal
Over several months the graft matures into solid bone, building the height needed to securely anchor dental implants.
Implant
Once the new bone is strong enough, implants are placed, either during the lift itself or at a later appointment depending on your case.
Sinus Lift FAQs
A sinus lift is a bone graft procedure that adds bone to the upper back jaw near the sinus cavities. It is done when there is not enough bone height to place dental implants in that area. The sinus membrane is lifted and graft material is added below it, eventually forming bone strong enough to support implants.
You may need a sinus lift if you want implants to replace upper back teeth but lack sufficient bone height there. This is common because the sinus cavities sit close to the upper jaw and bone in this area shrinks after teeth are lost or due to natural anatomy. The lift creates the bone needed to make implants possible.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia with sedation available, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Afterward, most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for several days, similar to other oral surgery, and it is well controlled with medication. Many patients find recovery more comfortable than expected.
Initial recovery from the surgery itself takes about a week, during which you avoid blowing your nose forcefully and other activities that pressurize the sinuses. The grafted bone then needs several months, often four to nine, to fully mature before implants can be placed or loaded. We provide detailed aftercare instructions and monitor your healing.
The cost varies based on the complexity of the lift and the amount of graft material required, generally ranging from about $1,500 to $5,000 per side. It is usually part of a larger implant treatment plan. We provide a clear, personalized estimate after evaluating your imaging, and some medical or dental insurance may contribute.
Sometimes. If enough of your own bone remains to provide initial stability, implants may be placed during the same procedure as the sinus lift. If bone is very thin, the lift is done first and implants are placed after the graft has healed. Your imaging determines which approach is appropriate.
Yes, a sinus lift is a well-established and safe procedure with a high success rate when performed by an experienced provider using proper imaging and technique. The most common minor complication is a small tear in the sinus membrane, which is usually repaired easily during the procedure. We plan carefully to minimize any risk.
A properly performed sinus lift does not impair normal breathing or sinus function. The membrane is lifted gently and the graft sits below it, outside the air space. You may experience temporary congestion or pressure during healing, but long-term sinus function is not affected. Following aftercare instructions protects the sinus while it heals.
Implants placed in bone created by a sinus lift have a high success rate, comparable to implants placed in natural bone, often above 90 percent. Allowing the graft to heal fully and following good oral hygiene and maintenance are key to long-term success. The sinus lift simply provides the solid foundation those implants need.