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Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm & Friday 8am - 2pm

Sinus Lift

When there isn’t enough bone to place an implant

Oral surgery Elegant Smiles dental treatment scene

Occasionally, the challenge with dental implants isn’t the tooth, it’s the bone underneath. In the upper back jaw, there may not be enough bone height to securely place an implant. This can happen due to bone loss, missing teeth over time, or simply natural anatomy. A sinus lift is a way to gently create more space and build that support so implants can be placed properly.

What a sinus lift actually does

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The name can sound a bit technical, but the idea is fairly straightforward. The sinus membrane is carefully lifted, and bone material is added to the area below it. Over time, this added material integrates with your natural bone, creating a stronger, more stable base. It’s not something you notice day to day, it just helps make future treatment possible.

Why it’s often recommended before implants

Oral surgery Elegant Smiles dental treatment procedure

Dental implants need a solid foundation to last. Without enough bone, placing an implant may not be stable or predictable. A sinus lift helps avoid those issues by building up the area first. In many cases, it’s what allows patients who were previously told “it’s not possible” to move forward with implants.

What to expect during the process

Dental clinic treatment Elegant Smiles care scene

We take time to plan everything carefully before the procedure. Imaging helps us understand the exact structure of your jaw and sinus area. On the day of treatment, the focus is on keeping things steady, controlled, and comfortable. Most patients are surprised that it feels more manageable than they expected.

Comfort during treatment

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It’s normal to feel unsure about any procedure involving surgery. That’s why we offer options to help you relax. Some patients prefer light sedation, while others want something deeper. We’ll talk through it together so you’re not going into it feeling tense or rushed.

Healing and what comes next

Complete Mouth Dental Implants Atlanta oral surgery treatment

Healing takes time because the bone needs to integrate properly. This usually happens over several months. It might feel like a slow process, but it’s what helps ensure long-term success with implants. We’ll check your progress along the way and let you know when you’re ready for the next step.

Flexible care across locations

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If Atlanta isn’t the most convenient option, that’s okay. 

We provide this service at our Marietta and Buford locations. 

This allows you to choose the location that fits your schedule best while still receiving consistent care.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions About Sinus Lifts

When there isn't enough bone in the upper jaw to support a dental implant, a sinus lift is performed. It contributes to the establishment of a solid basis for long-term implant success.

Because of sedation or anesthetic, you won't experience any pain during the process. After that, there might be some minor pressure or discomfort, but with medicine and the right care, it's typically manageable.

Because the new bone needs time to connect with your natural bone, healing often takes many months. Before proceeding with implants, your dentist will assess your progress.
Yes, in certain situations. Implants can be inserted during the same treatment if there is sufficient bone already present. Otherwise, the sinus lift is done first, followed by implant placement later.

People who have lost bone in the upper jaw or have naturally low sinus positioning may need a sinus lift. It’s often recommended before placing dental implants in that area.

Working Hours

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★★★★★
4.9
1530 reviews
Elegant Smiles
★★★★★
4.9 | 1530 Google reviews
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K P
a month ago
★★★★★
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My experience at Elegant Smiles was absolutely amazing! Dr. McKie and Daisy made me feel comfortable, welcomed, and genuinely cared for throughout my visit. They were both professional, kind, patient, and attentive to my needs. It’s not often that you can say you truly enjoyed a dental visit, but I definitely did! 😊 I appreciate the wonderful care and excellent customer service I received. Thank you, Dr. McKie and Daisy, for making my experience such a positive one. I highly recommend Elegant Smiles! ❤️
Daimien J. Matherson
2 months ago
★★★★★
Best dental experience I’ve ever had! I’m so glad I gave Elegant a try and didn’t let the dental fear stop me because this is what it’s supposed to be like. Many people would come and do their cleanings more often if this is where they went. Daisy was incredible and brilliant. Personable is an understatement. She made every step of my appointment lighthearted. And Dr. Kimi had a gentle hand and she was incredibly kind. She was knowledgeable and efficient. Both of them never made me feel judged which was my biggest fear. I’m glad I have somewhere to go that won’t put my anxiety in turbo-mode.
Cecile Barnhill
4 months ago
★★★★★
As a new patient with this dental practice, i am thoroughly impressed with the staff, their quality of service, and my overall experience. I moved into the area not long ago and have had the hardest time finding a dentist that takes my Humana Medicare plan. So i was excited when i learned Elegant Smiles was an in-network provider (1st star) and i didn't have to wait long for an appointment (2nd star). I scheduled an appt for a basic cleaning but ended up needing a deep cleaning. Well I did miss a few cleanings over the last 2 years so i braced for the situation and proceeded knowing it may be a bit more painful. But i was so wrong and pleasantly pleased. From the start, the warm welcome from Lauren, the dental assistant, was delightful. Her smile and joyful personality is infectious. She's attentive, very good at helping patients relax, and seems to enjoy her work (3rd star). Upon meeting Dr. McKie, i was immediately comfortable with his demeanor and appreciated his recommendations as well as the attention he gives to his patients. But the highlight was the care and gentleness of the cleaning. I've been there twice now to complete the deep cleaning and it truly has been the best dental experience i've had. Dr. McKie's efficiency, quality of service, and professionalism is praiseworthy.
Hodo Abdi
4 months ago
★★★★★
Very amiable staff. They are nice and very professional! I was helped by Hygienist Shewantai and Dr. To and they were the best! They were very gentle and took great care with my teeth. I’ve had many dentists in the past that were very cold and unforgiving with drilling into my teeth, so they were a breath of fresh air the first time I came here over a year ago. I definitely recommend this practice to anyone who is sensitive to dental work, they will take their time and be gentle with you!
Earlaysha
8 months ago
★★★★★
I had an amazing experience at Elegant Smiles. I loved the hygienist Lauren. She was very friendly and informative which helped make me feel comfortable as a first time patient. Dr. Mckie is amazing! He was extremely knowledgeable. He not only educated me, but helped me feel relieved about the concerns I had. I’m very pleased with the treatment I received as well as the customer service. There wasn’t a long wait & their X-Ray process is also super cool and quick! 10/10