Sinus Lift
in Ashburn, VA

A sinus lift (sinus augmentation) adds bone to your upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars, specifically between your jaw and the maxillary sinuses. When upper back teeth are lost, the sinus cavity often expands downward into the space where the roots used to be, leaving insufficient bone for implants. Without adequate bone height (typically at least 8-10mm), implants cannot be securely anchored. A sinus lift restores that bone, making implants possible.

A cone beam CT scan reveals your exact bone height beneath the sinus. If you have less than 8-10mm of bone height in the upper molar/premolar area, a sinus lift is likely needed before implant placement. Patients who have been missing upper back teeth for a long time, had teeth removed years ago, or have been told their bone is "too thin" for implants are the most common candidates. Your free consultation at our Ashburn office includes a 3D scan assessment.

The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia and is not painful. IV sedation is available if you prefer to be unaware during surgery. Recovery is milder than most patients expect, typically 3-5 days of mild swelling, nasal congestion, and light bleeding. Most Ashburn patients return to desk work within 1-2 days. We provide detailed post-operative instructions and are available for any questions during healing.

In many cases, yes. If you have at least 4-5mm of existing bone height, your surgeon can often place the implant at the same time as the sinus lift, a one-stage approach that reduces total treatment time. When bone height is very limited (under 4mm), the two-stage approach is safer: the sinus lift is completed first, the graft heals for 4-9 months, and then implants are placed into the mature bone. Your 3D scan determines which approach is right for you.

Most patients feel back to normal within a week. However, the bone graft itself takes 4-9 months to fully integrate with your natural bone, this is the biological process that cannot be rushed. During this time you wear a temporary restoration. Once the CT scan confirms adequate bone density and volume, implant placement is scheduled. Some patients with favorable anatomy can have implants placed at 4 months; others need the full 9 months.

We use several options depending on your anatomy and preferences. Autogenous bone (your own bone, usually from the jaw or chin) provides the fastest integration but requires a second harvest site. Allograft (cadaver bone, sterilized and processed) is the most commonly used material and performs excellently. Xenograft (bovine-derived) and alloplast (synthetic) materials are also effective options. We discuss the advantages of each material at your consultation and help you choose the best option for your situation.

Sinus lifts are well-established procedures with an excellent safety record when performed by experienced clinicians. The primary risk is perforation of the Schneiderian membrane (the sinus lining) during elevation, if this occurs, it is typically repaired in the same visit with no long-term consequences. Other rare risks include infection, graft failure, and sinusitis. Our team uses 3D CT planning and specialized membrane elevation instruments to minimize all procedural risks.

Sinus lift costs vary based on the technique used, graft material, and whether implants are placed simultaneously. We provide a complete treatment plan with all costs outlined at your free consultation. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of medically necessary bone grafting procedures. We also offer 0% financing options to make treatment accessible for Ashburn and Loudoun County patients.