Sinus Lift Surgery in Corona, CA
A sinus lift — also called a sinus augmentation — is a bone grafting procedure that adds bone volume to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. It is one of the most common and predictable procedures performed before dental implant placement in the upper jaw. SmileNOW Dental provides sinus lift procedures as part of our comprehensive periodontal and implant services in Corona, CA.
Why a Sinus Lift Is Needed
The maxillary sinuses sit just above the upper back teeth. When upper molars or premolars are lost, the bone beneath the sinus can resorb (shrink) over time, and the sinus cavity itself may expand downward into the space. This leaves insufficient bone height and density to support a dental implant.
A sinus lift may be recommended if you:
- Are missing one or more upper back teeth and want dental implants
- Have lost significant bone in the upper jaw due to tooth loss or gum disease
- Have a naturally large sinus cavity that leaves limited bone between the sinus floor and the jaw ridge
- Were previously told you did not have enough bone for implants in the upper jaw
The Sinus Lift Procedure
Sinus lift surgery is performed under local anesthesia, with sedation available for patients who prefer it. The procedure typically takes 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on whether one or both sides are being treated.
Lateral Window Approach
The most common technique involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone on the outer side of the upper jaw. A small oval opening is cut into the bone, and the membrane lining the sinus is gently lifted upward. Bone graft material is then packed into the space between the jaw and the lifted sinus floor, increasing the bone height available for implants.
Osteotome (Internal) Approach
For cases requiring only a modest increase in bone height (typically 3–5mm), an internal sinus lift can be performed through the implant site itself without a separate incision. This is a less invasive option when applicable.
Bone Graft Material
We use biocompatible bone graft material — which may be your own bone, donor bone, or a synthetic bone substitute — to fill the sinus space. Over the following months, this material integrates with your natural bone, creating a stable foundation for implants.
Healing and Implant Timing
After a sinus lift, the bone graft requires time to mature and integrate before implants can be placed. This healing period typically ranges from 4 to 9 months depending on the amount of bone added and the type of graft material used.
In some cases where adequate existing bone is present, implants can be placed at the same time as the sinus lift — reducing the number of procedures and shortening the overall treatment timeline. Your evaluation will determine which approach is appropriate for you.
Recovery After Sinus Lift Surgery
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Full healing of the graft takes several months internally, but day-to-day discomfort resolves much sooner.
- Swelling and mild bruising around the cheek and eye area are normal for the first few days
- Avoid blowing your nose forcefully for 2–3 weeks — this can displace the graft
- Sneeze with your mouth open if needed to avoid pressure changes in the sinus
- Avoid smoking throughout the entire healing period — it significantly impairs graft success
- Take all prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications as directed
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated side initially
We schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing and confirm the graft is integrating properly before proceeding to implant placement.
Cost of a Sinus Lift in Corona, CA
Sinus lift procedures typically range from $1,500 – $3,000 per side depending on the technique used and the volume of bone graft material required. This is separate from the cost of the implant itself.
Some PPO dental and medical insurance plans may provide partial coverage for sinus lift surgery, particularly when performed due to bone loss from disease rather than tooth loss alone. We will verify your benefits and provide a full cost breakdown before any treatment begins. Financing through CareCredit is available.
Sinus Lift at SmileNOW Dental
Our periodontal team combines clinical precision with a patient-first approach, explaining every step so you understand exactly what is happening and why. If you have been told you do not have enough bone for upper jaw implants, a sinus lift may be the solution that makes implant treatment possible for you.
Call us or book online to schedule a consultation. We serve patients throughout Corona, Norco, Eastvale, Riverside, Chino Hills, and the greater Inland Empire.