When placing implants in the upper molar area of the upper jaw, the most common issue encountered is bone resorption (bone loss) in the upper jawbone. Sufficient bone height and thickness are necessary for successful implant placement. However, there is often inadequate bone in the areas of the upper molars and premolars. The primary cause of this deficiency in bone height and thickness is bone atrophy following tooth loss, and sometimes individual anatomy also contributes. 

When there is insufficient bone height in this area, a Sinus Floor Elevation Procedure is required. Sinus floor elevation can be performed using either an open or closed approach. 

Treatment Process

Open Approach

This method is employed when the bone height at the planned implantation site, near the sinus, is less than 5 millimetres. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the gum tissue, followed by the creation of a small window in the upper jawbone at the projection of the maxillary sinus. The sinus lining is then gently lifted, creating a space between the lining and the bone. This space is filled with artificial bone granules. In some cases, an implant can be placed immediately afterward, while in others, implantation may be performed after 6 months. 

Closed Approach

Performed when the bone height near the sinus is between 5-7 millimeters. During this procedure, the implant is always placed. This sinus floor elevation procedure differs minimally from a regular implantation.

During the procedure, specialised instruments are used to lift the sinus floor through the prepared space for the implant, and then the gap created is filled with bone granules. On the other hand, sometimes, this step is unnecessary. In those cases the implant is placed, and the mucosal tissue is sutured as in a standard implantation procedure. After the procedure, the post-operative instructions are the same as after implantation, and patients are advised to avoid flying for a week.