Dental and Bone Surgery
What is bone grafting and when is it needed?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring or increasing the volume of the jawbone. It is performed when the natural bone is insufficient to provide stable support for teeth or dental implants.
This procedure is indicated in cases of bone loss (atrophy) caused by:
✓ Long-term tooth loss: Without chewing stimulation, the jawbone gradually becomes thinner and may resorb over time.
✓ Periodontal diseases: Chronic inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues can lead to the destruction of the bone that supports the teeth.
✓ Planned dental implantation: When implant placement is required but the existing bone volume is not sufficient to ensure long-term stability and fixation.
Sinus Lift Procedures
Sinus lift is a highly precise surgical procedure used to increase bone volume in the posterior upper jaw. It allows the elevation of the maxillary sinus floor and creates a sufficient bone base for safe dental implant placement.
After tooth loss, the bone in this area gradually resorbs, while the maxillary sinus may expand, further reducing available bone height. Therefore, bone reconstruction is often required before implant placement.
At MaryClinic, two main sinus lift approaches are used depending on the degree of bone deficiency and the clinical situation.
Types of Sinus Lift Procedures
Open sinus lift
Open sinus lift is a classical surgical technique used in cases of significant bone deficiency, typically when the residual bone height is less than 4–5 mm.
During the procedure, a small access is created on the lateral side of the gum to reach the jawbone. The sinus membrane is carefully lifted, and the created space is filled with bone graft material.
During the procedure, a small access is created on the lateral side of the gum to reach the jawbone. The sinus membrane is carefully lifted, and the created space is filled with bone graft material.
This method allows the restoration of even extensive bone loss and provides a stable foundation for future implants. Implant placement is usually performed 3–6 months later, after complete bone formation.
Closed sinus lift
Closed sinus lift is a minimally invasive technique used when the existing bone height is sufficient to ensure primary implant stability (approximately 5–7 mm), but additional bone augmentation is still required.
The procedure is performed through the same access prepared for implant placement, without additional incisions. The sinus floor is gently lifted, bone graft material is added, and the implant is placed during the same visit.
The main advantage of this method is that bone augmentation and implant placement can be performed in a single session, reducing overall treatment time and making recovery faster and more comfortable.