Restoring Upper Jaw Bone Height for Predictable, Long-Lasting Dental Implants

The upper back teeth—especially molars—sit directly beneath the sinus cavity. When these teeth are removed, the bone in that area naturally thins, and the sinus slowly expands downward. For many Albuquerque patients, this means there isn’t enough height to safely place an implant without reinforcement. A sinus lift rebuilds this missing bone, raises the floor of the sinus, and creates a stable foundation strong enough to support dental implants for decades.

At Osuna Dental Care, sinus lift procedures are performed using CBCT-guided mapping to ensure precision and safety. Whether you need a small internal lift at the time of implant placement or a more substantial lateral approach, our techniques are designed to maximize comfort, predictability, and long-term success.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift—also called sinus augmentation—is a procedure that gently elevates the Schneiderian membrane (the thin lining inside the sinus) so bone grafting material can be placed beneath it. Once healed, this graft becomes strong, natural bone capable of supporting a dental implant.

Sinus lifts are extremely common for:

• patients missing upper molars or premolars

• patients who have worn dentures for years

• patients with naturally thin upper jawbone

• patients whose sinus cavity has expanded downward

• implant candidates who were told they “don’t have enough bone”

Many patients who previously thought implants were impossible become excellent candidates after a sinus lift.

Why the Sinus Drops After Tooth Loss

When the upper back teeth are removed:

1. The bone begins to shrink

2. The sinus slowly expands downward

3. The remaining bone becomes too thin to support an implant

This resorption process can happen quickly—especially in the first few years after tooth loss.

Without sufficient bone height, placing a standard dental implant safely becomes impossible.

A sinus lift restores this missing height.

Types of Sinus Lift Procedures

There are two main approaches, and Dr. Kim selects the correct one based on your CBCT scan.

1. Internal (Crestal) Sinus Lift

Minimally Invasive — Performed Through the Implant Site

This method is ideal when only a few millimeters of bone height are needed. It is performed directly through the implant site without opening the side of the sinus.

Best for patients who need:

• small to moderate bone height increase

• implant placement the same day

• minimal surgery time

• a quicker recovery

This technique often allows the implant and the sinus graft to be completed in one visit.

If you’re already considering same-day implants, you may want to review how immediate placement works:
https://osunadentalcare.com/same-day-dental-implants-in-albuquerque-nm

2. Lateral Window Sinus Lift

For Larger Bone Deficiencies — More Comprehensive Approach

When the sinus has dropped significantly and bone height is extremely limited, a lateral sinus lift is the more reliable method.

This technique involves:

• creating a small “window” in the side of the sinus wall

• gently lifting the sinus membrane

• placing bone graft material beneath it

• allowing several months of healing

Lateral lifts are often ideal for patients who have been missing molars for many years or those who have experienced extensive periodontal bone loss.

Which Type Do You Need?

A CBCT scan provides the answer.

We evaluate:

• remaining bone height

• thickness and quality of bone

• sinus anatomy

• presence of sinus septa

• membrane integrity

• space needed for implant size and length

• whether the implant can be placed the same day

During your consultation, we’ll show your 3D scan on the screen and walk you through the exact measurements so you understand your options clearly.

Can Implants Be Placed the Same Day as a Sinus Lift?

Yes — sometimes.

You may qualify for same-day implant placement if:

• bone height is moderately reduced but still adequate for initial stability

• the sinus membrane is intact

• the graft is minor to moderate

• the implant achieves solid primary stability

This is most common with internal sinus lifts.

Implant placement is delayed if:

• the sinus lift is extensive

• a lateral window approach is required

• the bone height is extremely low

• stability cannot be guaranteed

Delayed placement ensures safer, more predictable integration.

Want to learn how bone grafting integrates with implant planning?
https://osunadentalcare.com/bone-grafting-in-albuquerque

What Materials Are Used for a Sinus Lift?

We use high-quality graft materials designed for predictable integration, such as:

• allograft (most common)

• xenograft

• synthetic graft materials

• PRF-enhanced grafts for improved healing

These materials stimulate natural bone growth and slowly transform into your own bone.

What to Expect During a Sinus Lift Procedure

1. CBCT Scan and Planning

We map your sinus anatomy, measure bone height, and select the safest approach.

2. Comfort and Anesthesia

The area is numbed thoroughly, and sedation options are available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience.

3. Elevation of the Sinus Membrane

Depending on the approach:

• a small opening is created through the implant site (internal method)

• or a lateral window is created on the sinus wall

The membrane is gently lifted to create space.

4. Bone Grafting Material Is Placed

The graft is packed beneath the membrane to build new bone height.

5. Implant Placement (If Appropriate)

If stability goals are met, the implant may be placed immediately.

Otherwise, the site is allowed to heal first.

6. Healing & Integration

Healing times vary based on the procedure:

• Internal lift: 3–6 months

• Lateral lift: 6–9 months

We monitor healing and confirm graft integration with follow-up imaging.

Recovery After a Sinus Lift

Most patients experience mild pressure or soreness—not significant pain.

Typical recovery includes:

• slight swelling for 1–3 days

• congestion-like pressure

• avoiding nose blowing or sneezing with force

• soft foods temporarily

Most people return to normal activities the next day.

Who Needs a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift may be necessary if you:

• have been missing upper molars for years

• have significant bone thinning

• were told “you don’t have enough bone for implants”

• want long-lasting implant stability

• want implants instead of a partial denture

• want fixed teeth instead of removable dentures

Without adequate bone height, implants may fail or become unstable.
A sinus lift prevents this by creating the strong foundation needed for long-term success.

Sinus Lift Cost in Albuquerque

Pricing varies based on the type of sinus lift and the amount of grafting required.

Typical ranges:

Internal (Crestal) Sinus Lift:

$800 – $1,500

Lateral Window Sinus Lift:

$1,500 – $2,500+

Sinus lift fees include:

• CBCT imaging

• surgical planning

• grafting materials

• membrane placement

• follow-up evaluations

Patients exploring full-arch options can review pricing here:
https://osunadentalcare.com/dental-implant-cost-albuquerque

Sinus Lifts and Full-Arch Implants

Most full-arch implant procedures—such as All-on-4—intentionally avoid the sinus by angling implants into strong anterior and premolar bone.

More details:
https://osunadentalcare.com/all-on-four-dental-implants-in-albuquerque-nm

However, sinus lifts are still useful for:

• hybrid cases

• All-on-6 designs

• traditional implant bridges

• posterior reinforcement

• patients who want a more even load distribution

During your CBCT review, we’ll show exactly whether grafting will benefit your final result.

FAQ — Sinus Lift in Albuquerque

Is a sinus lift painful?

Most patients say it’s more like pressure than pain. Discomfort is usually mild.

Can the sinus membrane tear?

Small tears can occur, but they are typically repairable and heal predictably.

How long before I can get implants?

3–9 months, depending on the extent of the lift.

Is a sinus lift always necessary?

No. All-on-4 and angled implants often eliminate the need for major sinus grafting.

Is it safe?

When done with CBCT guidance and proper technique, sinus lifts are highly predictable.

Schedule Your Sinus Lift Consultation

If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone—or if you're preparing for implants—schedule a sinus lift evaluation with our team. We’ll review your 3D scan, explain your options clearly, and design a plan that supports long-term implant success.

We proudly serve Albuquerque, Tanoan, Osuna Park Inc, High Desert, Sandia Heights, and surrounding communities.

Osuna Dental Care

Osuna Dental Care
5900 Cubero Dr NE Ste B
Albuquerque, NM 87109
(505) 884-1989