Sinus Lift Surgery in Westlake Village
When an upper back tooth has been missing for a while, the bone beneath it often thins, and the sinus cavity above can settle lower into the space where an implant would need to anchor. A sinus lift, sometimes called a sinus augmentation, gently raises the sinus membrane and adds bone graft material underneath. This rebuilds the height an upper implant needs. At 805 Dentistry, we perform sinus lift surgery for patients in Westlake Village and nearby communities from our Thousand Oaks office, so planning, surgery, and implant care can all happen with one team.
The upper molars and premolars sit directly below the maxillary sinuses, which are air-filled spaces behind the cheeks. While a tooth is in place, its roots help keep the surrounding bone active. Once the tooth is gone, that bone can shrink, and the sinus floor may expand downward. The result can be too little bone to hold an implant securely, even when the gums look healthy.
During a sinus lift, we make an access point in the upper jaw. We then carefully lift the thin sinus membrane and place bone graft material in the newly created space. Over time, the graft integrates with the natural bone and forms a stable foundation. Depending on the available bone, the implant may be placed at the same visit or after the graft has had time to mature. Our periodontics team, which includes a board-certified periodontist, handles both bone grafting and implant placement.
Westlake Village patients come to us for a sinus lift in several different situations. Some lost an upper back tooth years ago and are now ready to replace it, only to learn the bone has receded. Others have had a molar extracted after a crack, infection, or failed root canal and want to plan ahead for an implant. Some patients who wear partial or complete dentures are exploring implant-supported options such as All-on-4, All-on-6, or other full-arch treatments, where upper bone volume affects where implants can go.
A sinus lift can also be part of a larger plan. Patients who have lost bone to gum disease sometimes need periodontal treatment first. Patients working toward full mouth rehabilitation may need several procedures coordinated in sequence. Because our practice offers gum disease treatment, extractions, grafting, implants, and restorations, we can map out the full path rather than sending you to different offices.
Am I a good candidate for a sinus lift?
You may be a good candidate if you want an implant in the upper back jaw but don't have enough bone height to support it. The only way to know is a careful evaluation that combines an exam with detailed imaging.
We provide CBCT imaging, a 3D scan that shows bone height, bone width, and the exact position of the sinus. A board-certified oral and maxillofacial radiologist is on our staff, which gives us added expertise in reading these scans. We'll also review your gum health, medical history, and goals, then explain whether a sinus lift fits your situation or whether another approach makes more sense. You don't need a referral to schedule a periodontal consultation with us.
What happens during and after sinus lift surgery?
The procedure is done in our office, with local anesthesia and, if you'd like, sedation for added comfort. Our board-certified dental anesthesiologist offers nitrous oxide, oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. This can help patients who feel anxious about oral surgery.
Here is a general outline of what to expect:
- A consultation and CBCT scan to measure bone and plan the graft
- A discussion of your sedation options
- The surgical visit, where the membrane is lifted and graft material placed
- Written aftercare instructions and follow-up visits to monitor healing
- Implant placement, either at the same visit or after the graft matures
- A final crown or restoration, supported by our on-site dental lab
After surgery, we'll give you specific instructions to protect the graft while it heals. These typically include avoiding forceful nose blowing and sneezing with your mouth closed, along with guidance on eating and oral hygiene. Some swelling and tenderness are common, and we'll walk you through how to manage them. If anything concerns you during recovery, contact our office. We also offer emergency dental appointments.
How can I pay for a sinus lift?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans and welcome self-pay patients. Coverage for sinus lifts and implants varies from plan to plan, so our team can help you understand your benefits before treatment begins.
Financing is also available, which lets many patients spread the cost of a multi-step implant plan over time. During your consultation, we'll go over the treatment sequence and costs so you can decide with confidence.
Led by Dr. Dar Radfar, 805 Dentistry offers Westlake Village families dental care for all ages under one roof. If you've been told you don't have enough bone for an upper implant, we'd be glad to take a closer look and talk through your options.