Maxillary sinus lift: Dental Implants When There Is No Bone
Dental implants when there is no bone
Maxillary sinus lift is a surgical procedure that carefully elevates the maxillary sinus and creates the space needed to place bone regeneration material. Over time, this bone integrates and allows safe placement of dental implants.
What is maxillary sinus lift?
Lack of bone in the upper jaw is very common after tooth loss, as bone resorbs naturally and the maxillary sinus descends, reducing the height available for implants. Maxillary sinus lift solves this problem and allows implant treatments to be planned with greater safety and predictability.
It is a proven technique widely used with a high success rate when properly indicated and planned, as reflected in clinical guidelines and scientific literature from the Spanish Society of Periodontology and Osseointegration (SEPA).
At MAG Dental Madrid we specialize in full-mouth implant rehabilitations
— Dr. Alejandro Prieto
Types of sinus elevation
Open maxillary sinus lift
Open maxillary sinus lift is indicated when bone loss is greater. The maxillary sinus is accessed laterally to elevate the membrane and place a larger amount of regenerative material. It is the most used technique in complex cases and allows extensive, controlled bone regeneration.
Maxillary sinus lift and implant placement
- Maxillary sinus lift and implant placement in the same surgical procedure, when a minimum bone height exists.
- Sinus lift before implant placement, allowing bone to regenerate before implants are placed.
Both options allow stable, long-lasting dental implants when correctly indicated. The choice depends on patient anatomy and individual treatment planning.
Who is maxillary sinus lift indicated for?
Bone regeneration in the maxillary sinus is indicated for:
- Patients with little bone in the upper jaw.
- People who lost teeth long ago and have bone resorption.
- Patients told they cannot have implants.
- Cases where conventional dental implants are not possible.
- Patients who want a fixed solution instead of removable dentures.
- Single, multiple, or full-arch implant treatments.
A prior study with dental CBCT and digital planning confirms whether the patient is a candidate and which is the best option in each case.
Advantages of maxillary sinus lift
Sinus elevation offers multiple benefits:
- Allows implants when there is not enough bone.
- Makes fixed teeth possible in the upper jaw.
- Safe, predictable technique.
- Improves stability and longevity of dental implants.
- Avoids removable dentures.
- Treats complex implantology cases.
- Long-term functional and aesthetic results.
Disadvantages, risks, and possible complications
Like any surgical procedure, sinus lift surgery can present risks or side effects, although they are uncommon when properly indicated.
- Temporary swelling or discomfort.
- Risk of infection.
- Perforation of the maxillary sinus membrane.
- Delay in implant placement.
- Bone regeneration failure in specific cases.
Maxillary sinus lift failure is uncommon and is usually related to smoking, previous infections, or not following post-operative instructions. Learn more about dental bone grafting.
Price of maxillary sinus lift
The price of maxillary sinus lift depends on several factors:
- Type of technique (open or closed).
- Amount of bone to regenerate.
- Case complexity.
- Whether implants are placed in the same procedure.
As a guide, the price usually ranges between €600 and €1,500, not including the cost of dental implants. After a personalized study, a fixed quote adapted to each patient is provided.
Patient opinions on maxillary sinus lift
Opinions on maxillary sinus lift are usually very positive, especially in patients who were previously told they could not have dental implants. Patients highlight:
- Being able to have fixed teeth again.
- Treatment stability.
- Improved chewing function.
- Confidence in the procedure when it is well explained.
“We have solved hundreds of complex cases for patients with insufficient bone for dental implants. We will study your case to give you the safest solution — we offer a lifetime warranty on dental implants.”
Meet the team
MAG Dental Madrid
Multidisciplinary team
At MAG Dental Madrid we have a multidisciplinary team specializing in dental implants, fixed dentures on implants with immediate loading, and high-aesthetic dental veneers.
The team is led by Dr. Alejandro Prieto, an internationally renowned implant surgeon, expert in full-mouth implants and high-aesthetic dental results. We have an exclusive dental laboratory, allowing us to control every phase internally for quality, precision, and predictable outcomes.
Our goal: natural, stable, and long-lasting results for every patient.
Transformation stories
Dental implant treatment
If you have ever been told your case has no solution, at MAG Dental Madrid we push the limits of dentistry to offer the answer you were looking for.
Frequently asked questions
No. It is performed under local anesthesia and is not painful during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild.
Initial recovery is quick. Complete bone regeneration usually takes between 4 and 6 months.
In most cases no, although for physically demanding jobs a few days of rest may be recommended.
Intense exercise should be avoided during the first week after surgery.
The most common side effects are mild, temporary swelling or discomfort.
In many cases yes, depending on the amount of bone available.
See the transformation
Smile image changes are planned with care and nuance, for natural results that preserve overall balance and facial harmony.
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