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Sinus Lift
Sinus augmentation (sinus lift) is performed when the floor of the sinus is too close to an area where dental implants are to be placed. This procedure is performed to ensure a secure place for the implants while protecting the sinus. Lowering of the sinus can be caused by: Long-term tooth loss without the required treatment, periodontal disease, trauma, or as a natural process in some people.
Sinus Lift Information
- Sinus perforation or sustaining a puncture on the sinus membrane. A rip in the membrane could be an entry point for bacteria and other infections causing microorganisms to get to the sinus cavity resulting in illnesses. In such cases, the surgeon will prescribe antibiotics and will put a patch over the tear. Another option is to stitch the ruptured membrane but the operation will be postponed until the tear has totally healed.
- One of the big sinus lift risks is the displacement of bone graft material from the implantation area if the patient happens to sneeze. To prevent this, make sure to get away from allergens and pollutants that may cause sudden sneezing or the need for the patient to blow the nose.
- It would also be advisable to schedule the procedure during seasons when there is a low level of allergens in the air.
- Another risk of sinus lift as with any invasive and surgical procedure is the acquiring of infections. This could be prevented by following universal precautionary measures. Dr. Mueller always takes these precautions.
- Sinus lift complications can occur if the natural bone refuses to integrate with the bony graft material introduced or if the grafted area does not develop an ample supply of blood to the sinuses.
It is very important that an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS) performs your sinus lift procedure. An OMS has had at least 4 years of hospital-based residency training and is completely competent in treating the sinuses. There are many dentists and other dental specialists who often only take a weekend course to learn sinus lifts, do not have the medical training to diagnose and treat sinus-related disease, and cannot treat the complications of sinus lifting should they arise.
Experience and training mean a great deal!
A Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) is an upper jaw (maxilla) appliance that places pressure on the upper jaw by turning a midline screw. The pressure separates the mid palatal suture thus making the maxilla wider, which can correct cross-bites and create space. RPEs are used often to correct posterior cross-bites.
The RPE is made by an orthodontic lab to custom-fit your teeth.
After you turn the expander you will feel pressure. The pressure lasts for about 4 to 5 minutes. The pressure feels like taking your thumb and pushing on your teeth. So, an expander is not painful. You will have some pressure after activation for a few minutes and then it dissipates. Dr. Mueller will see you periodically after the surgery to monitor the healing and expansion.
Schedule a Consultation
The consultation is perhaps the most important time spent between the doctor, staff, and patient. It is paramount that patients feel relaxed and be prepared to talk and listen. Some patients are nervous when it comes to talking to someone about their cosmetic concerns.
Please feel free to bring a spouse or friend along. It is always good to discuss the treatment at some point with a caregiver or support person.
We will address your concerns, and at the same time, Dr. Mueller will fully evaluate your facial features. He will then discuss the comprehensive changes of aging and the available options to improve and enhance your look. We will discuss your health history and how it relates to safe surgery and anesthesia. Please be prepared to discuss your medical history and have a list of all the medications that you are taking. This includes all supplements and over-the-counter medications. It is also important to know if you smoke and how much.
Dr. Mueller always reminds patients that facial cosmetic surgery is a want or desire to look better. There are always multiple options for rejuvenation and he will discuss various treatment options. We encourage you to take notes since we will be discussing many things. We will provide you with a list of procedures we discussed as well as their costs. We want all of our patients to feel satisfied with their cosmetic surgery results.
