If you’re already providing dental implants at your practice, the next step is often to build your expertise and skills in bone grafting and sinus augmentation. With the lateral window sinus augmentation approach, you can open up new possibilities when treating patients with serious bone loss in the rear maxilla. Read on to learn more from The Pathway, and see the benefits of this unique approach to bone grafts and sinus lifts.
Lateral window sinus augmentation, also sometimes called “lateral wall sinus augmentation” is a treatment methodology that’s used to treat patients with severe bone loss in the rear upper molars. This treatment was first done nearly 45 years ago by Dr. Hilt Tatum, and has grown in prevalence and acceptance as dental technology has advanced.
In this treatment, an opening is made in the upper maxillary sinus, the sinus lining is elevated, and bone graft material is added to the maxillary sinus bone. This is one of the best sites in the mouth for growing strong, dense bone tissue, which makes it ideal for patients who need dental implants to replace their rear upper molars.
Yes. When performed properly, lateral window sinus augmentation is completely safe and is very effective. It’s a great alternative for patients who have extensive bone loss, and do not have the proper bone height for a traditional crestal approach.
With lateral window sinus augmentation, you can perform a bone graft and prepare for a dental implant even when a patient has very minimal bone height. This expands your treatment possibilities, and makes it easier for you to deliver excellent care in complicated dental implant cases.
Detailed treatment planning and CBCT x-rays are essential for the lateral window sinus augmentation process. Once a treatment plan is in place and the patient has been prepped, the procedure begins by creating a window into the maxillary sinus. Next, sinus curettes are used to elevate the membrane of the sinus and create space for the bone material.
Once the bone material is in place and sealed, the patient’s own growth factors can be used to help with recovery. Tools like IntraSpin® from BioHorizons® are invaluable for this process. Depending on the situation, it may even be possible to place the patient’s dental implant at the same time as their lateral window sinus augmentation treatment.
Using the right tools for the job makes things much easier. We recommend the Acteon® Piezotome® Cube. With piezosurgery, there’s less trauma to soft tissue during treatment, and it’s easier to cut to the proper depth, avoid damaging the sinus lining, and provide patients with the highest standards of care.
Due to the location of the surgical site, patients will usually experience swelling and bruising near the cheek and lower eye. Steroids and NSAIDs may be used to help with these symptoms. Infections are rare, and antibiotics can further reduce the risk of postoperative infection.
If you’re looking to expand your dental implant services and build your skills, lateral window sinus augmentation is a great treatment approach to learn. And at The Pathway, it’s one of Dr. Justin Moody’s favorite procedures to perform and to teach. If you’re interested in learning more, you can take a look at our dental implant course catalog, or contact The Pathway directly for the information you need.
With over 20 courses, 15+ seasoned mentors, and new Pathways being added to our curriculum, you can explore new ways to enhance your offerings and gain the confidence to treat patients with the high quality care they deserve.
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