Dental Articles - Edmonton
Dental implants with Sinus lift and bone grafting
Posted by Dr. Chersa on Sun, 19 Jul 2026
Learn about dental implants, sinus lifts, and bone grafting in Edmonton. Dr. Chersa explains the procedure, recovery timeline, and estimated costs involved.
Considering dental implants?
- Dr. Chersa treats straightforward and complex implant cases.
- 3D CBCT imaging helps determine whether bone grafting or a sinus lift is needed.
- Many patients with bone loss are still candidates for implants.
Who Is This Treatment For?
This treatment is often recommended for patients missing upper back teeth who no longer have enough bone to securely support dental implants.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Chersa for Complex Implant Cases
Patients are evaluated with 3D CBCT imaging to determine whether implants can be placed immediately or whether bone augmentation will provide a more predictable long-term result.
Why is a Sinus Lift Necessary for Edmonton Dental Implant Patients?
When you lose teeth in the upper back of your jaw (the molars or premolars), the jawbone in that area naturally begins to shrink and deteriorate over time. As this bone resorbs, the maxillary sinuses—the air-filled cavities just above your upper jaw—expand downward into the space where the bone root used to be.
If you decide to get dental implants in Edmonton later, there simply might not be enough dense bone left to securely anchor the titanium post. A sinus lift (also known as sinus augmentation) solves this structural problem by raising the sinus floor and packing the area with bone grafting material. This creates a deep, solid foundation capable of supporting a high-quality dental implant provided by Edmonton dentists like Dr. Chersa.
How the Sinus Lift and Bone Grafting Procedure Works
The surgery is a highly precise process, ensuring long-term success for your new implants.
- Accessing the Bone: A small incision is made in the gum tissue where the back teeth used to be, pulling it back to expose the jawbone.
- Creating the Window: A small, circular window is opened in the bone to access the sinus cavity.
- Lifting the Membrane: The delicate membrane lining the sinus is gently pushed upward and away from the jaw.
- Placing the Graft: The empty space beneath the lifted membrane is packed with bone graft material.
- Closing Up: The gums are stitched back together to allow for healing.
In some cases where there is already enough native bone to provide initial stability, the Edmonton dental implant might be placed during this exact same surgery. Usually, however, the graft needs time to heal and solidify first.
Can You Still Get Dental Implants if You Have Bone Loss?
In many cases, yes. Bone grafting and sinus lift procedures allow many patients who were previously told they lacked sufficient bone to become candidates for implant treatment.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Edmonton?
Pricing for affordable dental implants in Edmonton can vary based on the materials used and whether preparatory surgeries like a sinus lift are required. Here is a typical cost breakdown for a single dental implant with a sinus lift at local clinics like Dr. Chersa's:
| Procedure | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | Free | Often complimentary to assess your suitability for implants. |
| Sinus Lift / Bone Grafting | ~$499 | Cost of the bone grafting procedure and material. |
| Dental Implant Surgery (Edmonton) | ~$1,999 | Includes 3D imaging, surgical guide, and placing the titanium post. |
| Dental Crown & Abutment | ~$2,399 | The visible artificial tooth (often zirconia) and its connector. |
Note: Titanium implants are generally the most budget-friendly, while zirconia implants cost more but offer enhanced aesthetics and biocompatibility.
The Recovery Timeline for Sinus Lift Surgery
While the surgery is complex, downtime is relatively short. The real work happens beneath the surface over several months as the bone graft integrates with your natural jaw—a biological process called osseointegration.
First 48 Hours
Swelling around the cheek and eye on the treated side is normal. You will likely experience minor oozing and discomfort. Manage this by applying ice packs to your face (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) and eating a strict soft-food diet.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling begins to subside. You can switch from ice packs to warm, moist compresses. Begin gently rinsing with warm salt water. Physical exertion, heavy lifting, and intense exercise must still be avoided.
Weeks 2 to 4
Pain and bruising should be fully resolved. Most patients are back to their normal routines, though you should still avoid overly crunchy or hard foods (like chips and nuts).
4 to 9 Months
The bone graft fully matures, solidifies, and fuses with your natural jawbone. Once Dr. Chersa confirms the bone is dense and stable via X-ray, you are ready for the actual dental implant to be placed.
Crucial Do's and Don'ts for Post-Op Care
To ensure your Edmonton sinus lift and bone grafting procedure is a complete success, you must avoid displacing the bone graft or tearing the delicate sinus membrane through sudden pressure changes.
- ✗DON'T blow your nose. Avoid blowing your nose for at least two to four weeks. If you have a runny nose, dab it gently with a tissue.
- ✓DO sneeze with your mouth open. Sneezing creates immense pressure in your nasal cavity. Sneezing with your mouth open directs that pressure outward through your mouth.
- ✗DON'T use a straw. The suction can dislodge the blood clot essential for early healing.
- ✓DO sleep with your head elevated. Use an extra pillow for the first few days to keep your head above your heart, which significantly reduces facial swelling.
- ✗DON'T fly or scuba dive. Avoid activities that cause sudden barometric pressure changes in the sinuses until your Edmonton dentist specifically clears you.
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