How Painful is a Sinus Lift?
Having a sinus lift procedure performed will cause some mild discomfort, especially once the sedation and anesthetic have worn off; however, the use of local anesthetics and dental sedation will ensure that you do not experience any pain while the procedure is being performed. If you are seriously concerned about experiencing pain during or after your sinus lift procedure or have difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time, please know that we offer a comprehensive range of dental sedation, including oral sedatives, nitrous oxide, and intravenous (IV) sedation. IV or IM sedation is the strongest form of sedation and will only be used for patients with more serious procedures or who have significant dental phobia. This type of sedation can put you in a half-sleeping state and result in you having no memory of the procedure even being performed!
Aftercare Following Your Sinus Lift
While you should not experience any discomfort during the sinus lift procedure, you can expect to experience some pain and discomfort once the affects of the local anesthetic and dental sedation have worn off. It is important to follow aftercare instructions, which will be provided following your sinus lift procedure. Carefully following these instructions will alleviate pain, reduce your risk of developing complications, and speed up your recovery process.
Common issues you will need to tend to following your sinus lift procedure include:
- Pain/Discomfort: Pain medication may be prescribed to help manage discomfort if over-the-counter pain relieving medication is not sufficient. It is important to take these medications as prescribed and avoid driving a vehicle or consuming alcohol while taking them. Common side effects that may occur from taking prescription medication include dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea.
- Swelling: Ice packs placed over the area of swelling for fifteen minute intervals can help reduce swelling. Swelling should begin to subside within the first 48 hours.
- Bleeding: Gauze pads can be used to manage bleeding. The gauze should first be wetted then wrung out and replaced every thirty minutes until the bleeding stops.
- Infection: One of the most common complications that can develop following a sinus lift procedure is an infection. To help reduce your risk of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed, which should be taken as directed.
In addition to following these aftercare instructions, it is important to use a soft-bristle toothbrush, avoid touching the wound with your tongue or finger, following a soft food diet, sticking to foods like applesauce or yogurt and slowly reintroducing harder foods as your healing process progresses. Most patients will begin to feel better within two or three days and will have no remaining issues within seven to ten days.
Contact Coastal Jaw Surgery
As leaders in the field of implant dentistry, we proudly offer consultations for patients interested in seeing if dental implants are a viable solution for them. To schedule an appointment for a sinus lift and/or consultation for dental implants, or if you have any questions about the sinus lift and dental implant process, contact us today at (866) 798-5659, or fill out our online form at https://coastaljaw.com/contact-us//
At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to improving your oral health, aesthetic appearance of your smile, and overall quality of life!