IPI OF TORRANCE
Specialist in Dental Implants (Replacing Teeth)
Specialist in Saving Teeth (Periodontal Treatments)
Bone Graft / Sinus Lift Specialist
IPI of Torrance
Dental Implants and Periodontic Surgery located in Torrance, CA
Bone grafts and sinus lifts are oral procedures that help make room for dental implants to replace missing teeth. The dental experts at IPI of Torrance, located in Torrance, California, can potentially use dental crowns to restore your smile’s beauty, even if you’ve been told your sinuses are too low for an implant or that your bone is inadequate. While not all implant patients need a bone graft or sinus lift, the procedures can make dental implants an option for patients who might not otherwise be candidates. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.
Who is a candidate for a bone graft?
To receive a dental implant, which is a metal post that holds a crown to replace missing teeth, you need ample jawbone to support it. If your jawbone isn’t quite thick enough or is too soft, bone grafting can help provide a more solid base for the implant.
What is a bone graft?
Traditionally during bone grafting procedures, the doctors remove a piece of bone from another part of your body, such as your hip or another spot in your mouth, to transplant in your jawbone. The doctors at IPI of Torrance use artificial bone or bone donated from cadavers that is FDA-approved to perform bone grafting procedures.
What is a sinus lift?
A sinus lift adds bone to your upper jaw when you don’t have enough bone to support an implant, or your sinuses are just too low to accommodate an implant. To increase bone in the back areas, where your premolars and molars reside, the doctors at IPI of Torrance must move your sinus membrane upward and place bone graft. An implant could sometimes be placed at the same time.
Am I a good candidate for a sinus lift?
The doctors at IPI of Torrance may recommend a sinus lift for several reasons, including:
- Bone loss due to periodontal disease
- Anatomical cases in which your upper jaw doesn’t have as much bone as your lower jaw
- Natural bone loss that occurs due to missing teeth
- Your sinus area is too close to your upper jaw
A sinus lift can correct these conditions so a dental implant is possible. A dental implant can be a superior way to replace missing teeth as compared to dentures. Implants are permanently adhered, so there’s no slipping during speech or while chewing. They also look and feel more natural.
What should I expect during a bone graft or sinus lift?
During the bone graft or sinus lift, the doctors at IPI of Torrance place an incision in the gum tissue at the back of your mouth to expose the bone. They then pack bone graft materials into the space above the jaw. The area is closed with stitches to begin the healing process. It can take several months for the new bone to be ready for implants, but you’ll on your way to a healthier smile.
What is the ISM technique?
The ISM procedure, or internal sinus manipulation, offers a minimally invasive way to augment your sinus region. This procedure allows your doctor to manipulate your sinuses for optimal placement of implants.
To find out if you’re a good candidate for a sinus lift or bone graft, call IPI of Torrance or schedule a consultation online today.
