One of the challenges of placing dental implants in the upper posterior teeth is the sinus cavity. There are two techniques used to create enough bone volume to ensure successful implant placement while taking into consideration the proximity of the sinus.
Crestal Approach with Versah Osseodensification Technique: The crestal approach involves accessing the sinus cavity through the top of the jawbone (crestal bone). The Versah Osseodensification technique is a specialized method that uses specific burs to gently compact and densify the bone in the implant site. This can help to gradually elevate the sinus membrane and create space for the implant, all while preserving the integrity of the surrounding bone. This technique is known for being minimally invasive, resulting in reduced post-operative discomfort compared to more invasive procedures.
Lateral Approach: The lateral approach is used when the crestal bone is too thin to safely perform the osseodensification technique. In this approach, a small window is created in the side of the jawbone to access the sinus cavity. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed to augment the bone volume. This creates a stable foundation for the implant. While this technique might be slightly more invasive than the crestal approach, it’s still a well-established method for addressing bone deficiencies in the posterior maxilla.
Both approaches aim to provide the necessary bone volume for implant placement while ensuring the protection and integrity of the sinus membrane. The choice between these techniques depends on various factors, including the patient’s anatomy, the thickness of the crestal bone, and the expertise of the implant specialist.
