How Long Does a Sinus Lift Take to Heal?
Every person has a different natural rate of healing, so the answer to, “How long does a sinus lift take to heal” depends largely on the severity of your case, your body’s natural healing rate, and how well you follow aftercare instructions following your procedure. On average, however, most patients will notice pain and swelling reducing significantly after the first 48 hours and will no longer feel pain or discomfort from the procedure within seven to ten days.
While side effects from the sinus lift procedure should be gone within one or two weeks, it will take an additional three to five months for your bone graft to generate enough bone to support placement of a dental implant. We will schedule regular evaluations to monitor your bone graft, and as soon as enough bone has been generated, will schedule your appointment for dental implant placement.
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 effects of the local anesthetic and dental sedation have worn off. By carefully following aftercare instructions, you 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.
During your recovery period, it is also important to follow these instructions to reduce your risk of developing complications and speed up your recovery process:
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush
- When rinsing, do so gently and let the water fall out of your mouth, rather than forcefully spitting it out
- Do not use a Waterpik until you have completely healed
- Rest for 24-48 hours or longer if possible
- Do not touch the wound with your finger or tongue
- Hydrate
- Do not use a straw or smoke for at least three or four days or longer if possible
- Eat soft foods like yogurt and applesauce
Contact Coastal Jaw Surgery
As leaders in the field of implant dentistry, we proudly offer free 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 free consultation for dental implants, or if you have any questions about the sinus lift and dental implant process, contact us today at (800) 639-5665, 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!