Sinus Lift vs Traditional Bone Graft: What’s the Difference?

Dental bone grafting is a procedure used to restore lost bone tissue in the jaw. In cases where teeth have been out of the socket for an extended period of time, the bone that once supported those teeth will weaken and thin out. Without sufficient bone density the patient is ineligible for dental implants to replace missing teeth. But bone grafting provides a solution for bone loss. 

There are different types of bone grafting procedures used in dentistry. Traditional bone grafting and sinus lift procedures are two of the most common. What is a sinus lift and how does it differ from traditional bone grafting? This comparison will help you understand your treatment on a deeper level. 

What is Bone Grafting? 

A traditional bone graft procedure involves the placement of a bone fragment (graft) over the existing bone. The bone graft bonds with the existing bone, strengthening it and stimulating growth of new bone tissue. The bone fragment may be from your own body (autograft), a human donor (allograft), an animal (xenograft), or synthetic (alloplast). The source of the bone graft will depend on what is best for your needs. 

What is a Sinus Lift? 

A sinus lift is similar to a traditional bone graft, except that it is used specifically in the upper jaw. The purpose of a sinus lift procedure is to ensure that the upper jaw bone is thick enough to place a dental implant without puncturing the sinus cavity.

Key Differences Between a Sinus Lift and a Traditional Bone Graft

When it comes to comparing a sinus lift to a traditional bone grafting procedure, the main differences include: 

• Location: A bone graft can be done in any part of the jaw, but a sinus lift is only done in the upper jaw near the sinus cavity. 
• Purpose: The goal of a traditional bone graft is to strengthen and regenerate bone tissue. But the goal of a sinus lift is to thicken the upper jaw bone to protect the sinus. 
• Procedure techniques and complexity. The methods used for these procedures differ somewhat, the sinus lift being more complex. 
• Healing time and recovery. The timeline for healing and recovery may vary between traditional bone grafting and sinus lift. Everyone heals at different rates, but some experience faster healing after a sinus lift. 

Which Procedure is Right For You? 

The biggest factor in the choice between a sinus lift and a traditional bone graft is the location. If you are getting dental implants placed in the upper jaw near your sinus cavity, a sinus lift may be in your best interest. However, if this is not the case, then a traditional bone graft may be sufficient for you. Schedule a consultation with an oral surgeon to determine the best course of treatment. 

Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park provides all types of bone graft procedures, including sinus lifts. After a consultation and evaluation we can make a recommendation for treatment that would best meet your needs and prepare you for dental implants with the greatest chance of success. Contact us today to make an appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Graft and Sinus Lift Procedures

How soon after bone grafting can you get dental implants? 

It can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months for the jaw bone to regenerate following a bone graft procedure. Once your bone has reached the desired density, your dental implants can be placed. 

Which is more painful, a sinus lift or a bone graft? 

Your comfort is our top priority during all oral surgery procedures. Anesthesia is used to prevent discomfort during the procedure and over the counter pain relievers can help in the first few days afterwards. 

At Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park we create customized treatment plans to meet the individual needs of our patients. Through the use of advanced technology and the latest surgical techniques, we provide a comfortable and relaxing experience. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.