At the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, understands the importance of having a clear timeline for your treatment. This blog offers additional context to help you plan effectively and feel confident about your care.
How Long Do Most Patients Wait?
Generally speaking, most patients need to wait 4 to 9 months after a sinus lift before dental implants can be placed. This healing period allows new bone to develop in the upper jaw and gives your implants a strong, stable foundation. Without sufficient healing time, the success of your treatment could be compromised.
Why the Healing Time Matters
After a sinus lift, bone graft material is placed in your upper jaw near the molars or premolars. Over time, your body integrates this material and turns it into real bone. That’s what gives the dental implant a solid structure to anchor to. Adequate healing time ensures:
- Proper bone integration
- Reduced risk of treatment failure
- Long-term stability for your dental restoration
What Affects Your Healing Time?
Healing time isn’t the same for everyone. Here are a few factors that can influence how long you’ll need to wait:
- Type of graft material used
- Amount of bone added
- Your overall health and habits (e.g., smoking can slow healing)
- Age and bone density
- How well you follow post-operative instructions
Can the Timeline Be Shorter?
In rare cases, if your surgeon determines that your bone is stable enough, implants may be placed sooner. Sometimes, they’re even placed during the same procedure. However, this depends entirely on your unique anatomy and the type of sinus lift performed.
Schedule a Sinus Lift Consultation Today
If you’re considering dental implants but need a sinus lift first, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston at 281-491-4545 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Johnson.
