Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth. But not every patient has enough bone to support an implant — especially in the upper back jaw.
At Infinity Smiles Dental Clinic in Istanbul, our implant specialists use advanced procedures like sinus lifting and bone grafting to make implants possible even in challenging cases.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift (also called sinus augmentation) is a minor surgical procedure performed when the upper jaw lacks enough bone height for a dental implant.
Your maxillary sinus sits just above your upper back teeth. After tooth loss, the sinus can expand downward and the bone underneath it may shrink, leaving little space for an implant.
During a sinus lift at Infinity Smiles, our experienced team gently raises the sinus membrane and places bone material beneath it. Over several months, this material integrates with your natural bone, creating a thicker, stronger foundation for your implant.
What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting adds bone material where it’s deficient. We use it in both upper and lower jaws.
Types of grafts include:
- Socket grafts immediately after a tooth extraction to preserve bone.
- Ridge augmentation to widen or rebuild thin jawbone.
- Sinus grafting (sinus lift) to increase bone height under the sinus.
At Infinity Smiles, we use only sterile, biocompatible graft materials selected for your individual case.
When Do You Need a Sinus Lift or Bone Graft?
You may need one of these procedures if:
- You’ve been missing teeth for a long time and your jawbone has shrunk.
- Your upper back teeth were lost and the sinus has expanded.
- Gum disease or infection caused bone loss.
- A 3D scan shows insufficient bone for a dental implant.
Without enough bone, an implant may not be stable. By rebuilding the bone first, we create a stronger, longer-lasting foundation.
What to Expect at Infinity Smiles
- Comprehensive Consultation & 3D Imaging
Our team uses digital X-rays and CBCT scans to measure your bone precisely and plan the safest approach. - Comfortable Procedure Under Local Anesthesia
At Infinity Smiles, sinus lifting and bone grafting are almost always performed under local anesthesia, with optional mild sedation if you prefer.
General anesthesia is not routinely used — it’s reserved only for special cases. Most patients feel mild pressure rather than pain. - Healing & Integration
Bone grafts need time to integrate with your jaw. Depending on the size of the graft, healing may take 4–9 months before an implant is placed. In some cases, we can place the implant at the same time.
Implant Placement
Once the bone is ready, your dental implant is placed securely into the new foundation.