A Minimally Invasive Way to Prepare for Your Implant
Not every case of bone loss beneath the upper jaw requires extensive rebuilding. When only a small amount of additional height is needed to support a dental implant, a more conservative approach can often achieve the same goal with less time in the chair and a simpler recovery.
An intra-crestal sinus lift, also known as a crestal lift, is a minimally invasive approach that gently raises the sinus floor from the top of the ridge, at the same site where the implant will be placed. It is often recommended when only a modest boost in bone height is needed, rather than the larger volume of bone required in more advanced cases.
Unlike a lateral wall sinus lift, which accesses the sinus from the side of the jawbone to rebuild a significant amount of bone, a crestal lift is performed directly through the same opening prepared for the implant. This approach can allow the sinus lift and implant placement to be completed in a single visit in appropriate cases.
Because a smaller volume of bone graft material is needed, the procedure is generally less involved and associated with a shorter recovery than a lateral wall sinus lift.
A small amount of additional height is needed beneath the sinus, rather than a significant rebuild of the area.
Only one back tooth needs to be replaced, allowing the lift and implant to often be done in the same visit.
Teeth were lost more recently, meaning the sinus has had less time to expand downward into the jaw.
Understanding the difference between these two sinus augmentation approaches can help you know what to expect from your treatment plan:
INTRA-CRESTAL LIFT
Used when only a small boost is needed
LATERAL WALL SINUS LIFT
Used when less than 4-5 mm of bone remains
INTRA-CRESTAL LIFT
Accessed from the top of the ridge
LATERAL WALL SINUS LIFT
Accessed from the side of the jawbone
INTRA-CRESTAL LIFT
Often used for a single implant site
LATERAL WALL SINUS LIFT
Suited for multiple missing molars or premolars
INTRA-CRESTAL LIFT
Smaller volume of graft
material
LATERAL WALL SINUS LIFT
Larger volume to rebuild significant bone loss
A thin ridge of bone under the sinus doesn’t have to stand in the way of your dental implant. An intra-crestal sinus lift offers a minimally invasive way to build the support your implant needs, often in the same visit as placement.
Schedule a Consultation to See if an Intra-Crestal Sinus Lift is Right for You
Located in Magnolia, TX
Mon - Sat: 8AM to 5PM Sun: Closed
