Sinus Lifts & Bone Rebuilding For Dental Implants

Posted on Feb 25, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When natural tooth roots are missing from the upper or lower jaw, the bone that was once their foundation begins to shrink. Over time, this bone loss can cause many problems.

A common frustration of denture wearers is uncomfortable rubbing or slips while eating. This is because the bone ridge that the denture was designed to fit is shrinking. Even with adhesives and pastes, a flattened bone ridge can make chewing with a denture difficult. Relines may help for a brief time, but eventually, they seem to do little good.

Bone loss becomes obvious in one’s facial appearance. Deep wrinkling occurs around the mouth, even with dentures in place. The mouth appears sunken-in and the corners of the mouth turn downward. Jowls form and the chin takes on a pointed shape.

To place Dental Implants, a sufficient amount of upper or lower jaw bone must exist. Once the implants are in place, your bone grows around them. This secures them firmly in place, giving a dependable foundation like that of the tooth roots you once had.

In the lower jaw, a nerve runs horizontally through the bone. Placing implants must be done so there is no risk of interfering with this nerve. And, because the upper jaw connects to the sinus cavities, upper placement must be done so each implant avoids close proximity. This is why sinus augmentation, or a ‘sinus lift,’ is occasionally necessary.

A key to implant success is not just in the selection of the implant, but where the implant is placed. When too much bone loss has occurred, bone rebuilding techniques are necessary. Although these extend the treatment time and add to the overall cost, the ability to eat and laugh without worry or discomfort is well-worth the procedure you have, even if added steps are necessary. This is why it is better to have Dental Implants placed before this extent of bone loss occurs.

Some implants are specifically designed to for people who have had a great deal of bone loss. We’ve had excellent results with the ‘All-On-4’ implant system. These are placed at unique angles so they require less bone depth. Another benefit of All-On-4 is their ability to support a full arch using just four implants. Because the cost of implant treatment is largely determined by the number of implants used, this helps to keep overall expenses down.

Today’s Dental Implants are highly-successful and tremendously advantageous for those who once struggled with dentures or partials. If you’d like to know more, call to arrange a Consultation at (828) 274-9440.