Open & Closed Sinus Lifts
A dental sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, is a surgical procedure performed by a periodontist or oral surgeon to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars.
The maxillary sinuses are air-filled spaces located above the upper jawbone, and they can sometimes expand and encroach upon the available bone for dental implant placement. In a dental sinus lift procedure, the sinus membrane is gently lifted or pushed upward, and a bone graft material is placed in the space created between the sinus membrane and the jawbone.
The bone graft material used in a sinus lift can be sourced from the patient's own bone (autograft), a donor's bone (allograft), or synthetic materials (alloplast).
This graft material helps stimulate new bone growth and promotes the regeneration of the jawbone, creating a more suitable environment for dental implant placement.
A dental sinus lift is typically performed when there is insufficient bone height in the upper jaw to support dental implants. By increasing the amount of bone in the sinus area, it provides a stable foundation for implant placement and improves the chances of successful implant integration. This procedure can help individuals with missing teeth in the upper jaw regain their ability to have dental implants and restore their oral function and aesthetics.
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What is the difference between an open sinus lift and a closed sinus lift?
The main difference between an open sinus lift and a closed sinus lift lies in the surgical approach and the level of invasiveness.
The choice between an open or closed sinus lift depends on various factors, including the amount of bone needed, the condition of the sinus, and the patient's specific needs. A thorough evaluation by a dental professional will help determine the most suitable approach for each individual case.
Open Sinus Lift
An open sinus lift (also known as a lateral window sinus lift), is a surgical procedure performed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw's posterior region, specifically in the maxillary sinus area. During an open sinus lift, an incision is made in the gum tissue, exposing the lateral wall of the sinus. A small window is then created in the bone, allowing access to the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and a bone graft material is placed beneath it to promote new bone growth. This procedure requires sutures to close the incision and typically involves a longer healing time.

Closed Sinus Lift
On the other hand, a closed sinus lift (also known as a crestal sinus lift or internal sinus lift), is a less invasive alternative to the open sinus lift. It is performed when there is a minimal need for bone grafting in the sinus area. During a closed sinus lift, the bone graft material is placed through a small hole drilled into the jawbone, near the sinus floor. The graft material is then packed into the space between the jawbone and the sinus membrane, promoting bone growth. This procedure is less invasive, often resulting in reduced discomfort and faster healing compared to an open sinus lift.
