Mokgok Dental Clinic_3. Lateral Approach to Sinus Lift: When and How Is It Performed?

Hello,

Strong from the basics! This is Seoul Dia Dental Clinic in Magok, Seoul.

Do you remember the sinus lift, crestal approach, that we looked at last time?

If you’re thinking, “Hmm... it’s a little fuzzy,” please take a quick look through the link below first. It will make today’s story much easier to understand.

Let’s briefly review what we covered last time.

There are two types of sinus lift (Sinus Lift):

the crestal approach and the lateral approach.

The crestal approach gently pushes upward from the top, so the surgical area is small and recovery is quick.

However, if the remaining bone is too insufficient, it can be difficult to apply.

Today, we’ll talk about the lateral approach, which is needed in such cases.

It won’t take that long. Let’s focus for just 3 minutes and go through it together.

What is the lateral approach?

Magok Dental Clinic_Lateral Approach

The lateral approach begins by creating a small window on the side of the upper jawbone.

Through that window, the thin membrane inside the maxillary sinus is safely lifted with a broad field of view, and bone graft material is then placed underneath as needed.

When is the lateral approach used?

Magok Dental Clinic_Gingival bone under 4 mm

The lateral approach is a method that allows for a broad view and substantial grafting, and it shines when the remaining alveolar bone is 4 mm or less.

It is also well suited when a generous amount of bone grafting is needed, or when multiple implants need to be placed rather than just one or two.

Even when there is a small bony partition called a “septum” inside the maxillary sinus, or when the internal structure is complex and visibility is poor, the lateral approach clearly opens the way.

In the end, this method follows a very simple but important principle: “Safety comes from a wide field of view, and a wide field of view allows more grafting.”

That is why implants can be prepared steadily even under challenging conditions.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the lateral approach?

Magok Station Dental Clinic_Seoul Dia Dental Clinic

Shall we start with what makes the lateral approach appealing?

Above all, the wide field of view is a major advantage.

Because the inside can be seen clearly, the procedure is much safer.

Also, since a generous amount of bone grafting can be done, even severe bone deficiency can be addressed.

In addition, multiple implants can be prepared at once, and it can flexibly handle cases where there is a bony wall inside the maxillary sinus or the anatomy is complex.

Of course, there are drawbacks as well.

Compared with the crestal approach, the surgical area and time are longer, so there may be swelling or discomfort early in recovery.

Also, even with a wide field of view, it takes an experienced hand to make proper use of it.

Lastly, it is good to know that the cost may be somewhat higher in proportion to the surgical area and difficulty.

Step-by-step look at the lateral approach procedure

Magok Dental Clinic_Lateral Approach Procedure

1. Precise diagnosis

Using 3D CT, we accurately check the remaining bone height, width, the condition of the maxillary sinus membrane, and the location of blood vessels.

At this stage, the overall framework of the surgical plan is completed.

2. Creating a window on the side

A window of about 1 cm is made in the bone on the side of the maxillary sinus.

Thanks to this window, a broad field of view is secured and the risk of membrane damage is reduced.

3. Lifting the sinus membrane

Using special instruments, the sinus membrane is carefully lifted so that it does not tear.

It is a very delicate task, as if inflating the surface of a balloon.

4. Bone grafting

Bone graft material is placed into the lifted space.

The greater the amount needed, the more the advantages of the lateral approach stand out.

5. Implant placement or suturing

If the bone height is sufficient and primary stability is secured, the implant is placed at the same time.

If not, the next step is taken after a healing period.

Let’s briefly summarize today’s content.

The lateral approach (Lateral Approach) is used when the bone in the upper molar area is too thin, when a large amount of bone must be added because it is 4 mm or less, when multiple implants need to be placed at once, or when the maxillary sinus anatomy is complex.

Because the work is done with a broad side view, it is safe and allows enough bone to be placed, but the surgical area is larger, so it takes longer, swelling or discomfort may occur early in recovery, and the skill of an experienced doctor is absolutely necessary.

Dia Dental Clinic_Implant Consultation

If you are worried about the bone condition in the upper molar area, don’t just keep worrying. We recommend getting an accurate diagnosis at Seoul Dia Dental Clinic.

We will carefully examine everything with 3D CT, create a surgery plan tailored to your situation, provide meticulous treatment from experienced medical staff, and offer responsible follow-up care to the very end!

We will clearly and precisely tell you whether the lateral approach is needed, or whether there is an easier method.

“Start your strong implant journey at Seoul Dia Dental Clinic!”

[ This post was written in accordance with the Medical Service Act for the purpose of providing proper information about dental surgeries and procedures. Since infection and side effects may occur after surgery, the surgery (procedure) should be decided after sufficient consultation with skilled medical staff. ]

[ Magok Station Dia Dental Clinic Sinus Lift Series ]

1. Indications for sinus lift

2. Sinus lift methods (crestal approach)

3. Sinus lift methods (lateral approach)

4. Sinus lift cost

5. Precautions after sinus lift