The maxillary sinus sits above the upper back teeth. When those teeth have been missing a while, bone under the sinus can be thin—so implant planning sometimes includes a conversation about sinus grafting or alternative implant designs. This page is general education for Elk Grove patients. Imaging decides what applies to you.
Why the sinus comes up
After upper molar or premolar loss, the sinus floor can sit closer to the mouth. A standard implant length may not fit without addressing that anatomy. CBCT imaging is often how teams measure height and width before recommending a path.
Paths you may hear named (education, not a menu)
- Implant placement when existing bone is already enough
- Sinus graft / “lift” procedures timed with or before implants
- Shorter or angled implant concepts when appropriate for the case
Which path fits is a clinical call—not something to pick from a blog.
Questions to bring
- How much bone height do I have on imaging?
- Would grafting be simultaneous with implant placement or staged?
- What temporary tooth covers the space during healing?
- What activity limits apply after sinus-related surgery?
- Who do I call if pressure, nose symptoms, or unexpected swelling appear?
What not to DIY
Follow the written sheet you receive if sinus work is part of your plan.
Call (916) 886-1806 · 9340 W Stockton Blvd, Suite 120, Elk Grove, CA 95758
Bring any prior sinus or ENT history to the consult—it belongs in the conversation.