Sinus Lift Surgery in Toronto & North York

At Implant Dentistry Toronto™, Dr. Onur Cavus, BDS, PhD, performs sinus lift and bone grafting procedures to rebuild bone in the upper jaw and create a stable foundation for dental implants.

A sinus lift — also called sinus augmentation — raises the sinus membrane and places bone graft material in the posterior maxilla. This procedure restores bone height and allows long-term support for dental implants.

Dr. Cavus provides both lateral-window and crestal (internal) sinus-lift techniques, using CBCT-guided precision and sedation for patient comfort.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is performed in the area of the upper back teeth (premolars and molars), where the maxillary sinus lies just above the roots. When teeth are lost, bone resorption naturally occurs, reducing the available height for dental implants.

During a sinus lift, the sinus membrane is carefully elevated, and bone graft material is placed beneath it. This creates a stable foundation for secure, long-lasting dental implants.

Learn more about Bone Grafting →

Explore more and see an example Sinus Lifting Case→

When Is a Sinus Lift Needed?

A sinus lift may be recommended when:

  • The bone in the upper jaw is too thin for implant placement

  • The maxillary sinus is naturally large or positioned low

  • Bone has resorbed following tooth extraction or periodontal disease

  • Previous trauma or infection reduced bone volume

Sinus augmentation helps patients across Toronto and North York who were previously told they “don’t have enough bone” become candidates for dental implants.

Berofe sinus lifting by Dr. Onur Cavus in Toronto & North York
After sinus lifting and dental implant placement by Dr. Onur Cavus in Toronto & North York

Types of Sinus Lift Procedures

1. Lateral Window (Traditional) Approach

Used when a significant bone increase is required.

  • A small window is created on the outer wall of the maxilla.

  • The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is placed beneath it.

  • Typical healing time: approximately 6–9 months.

  • Dental implants can be placed simultaneously or after the healing period, depending on bone stability and graft integration.

Schematic illustration of a direct sinus lifting and implant placement surgery by Implant Dentistry Toronto and Dr. Onur Cavus BDS, PhD

2. Crestal (Internal) Approach

Used when minimal bone gain (2–3 mm) is needed.

  • The sinus floor is elevated through the implant site.

  • Bone graft material is inserted.

  • In many cases, the implant can be placed at the same appointment.

Click Here to Explore More About Dental Implants

Schematic illustration of crestal sinus lifting before implant placement surgery by Implant Dentistry Toronto and Dr. Onur Cavus BDS, PhD

Comfort and Sedation Options

Sinus lift procedures are performed under local anesthesia, often combined with sedation for maximum comfort.

Dr. Onur Cavus, certified in moderate IV sedation, offers a range of sedation options:

  • IV Sedation: Deep relaxation while remaining conscious and responsive

  • Oral Sedation: Mild to moderate relaxation

  • Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas): Light sedation that wears off quickly

📍 Explore Sedation for Dentistry →

Healing and Implant Placement Timeline

Healing time depends on the type of sinus lift performed:

4–6 months

Crestal / Internal

Often simultaneous

Implant Timing

Type of Lift

Typical Healing Period

Simultaneous or Implants after healing

Lateral / Traditional

6–9 months

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Is a sinus lift painful?

You’ll be completely numb with local anesthesia, and sedation is available. Mild soreness afterward is common and managed with routine medication.

Can implants be placed at the same time as a sinus lift?

Often, yes—with both internal (crestal) lift and lateral window technique, when adequate primary stability is achievable. This is confirmed after CBCT evaluation.

What bone graft materials are used?

Biocompatible options include allograft, xenograft, autogenous, or synthetic materials. Selection depends on your anatomy and goals.

How long do results last?

Once healed, the grafted bone integrates with your own bone and provides a durable foundation for dental implants.

Have more questions about dental implants, sedation, or surgical care? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for detailed answers about what to expect before and after your procedure.

Aftercare and Recovery

  • Mild sinus pressure or swelling for a few days is normal

  • Avoid blowing your nose or sneezing forcefully for 7–10 days

  • Follow prescribed rinses and medications

  • Eat soft foods and stay hydrated

  • Attend follow-up visits for monitoring and imaging

Risks and Complications

Sinus lift surgery is safe and predictable when performed by an experienced dentist, but potential risks include:

  • Sinus membrane perforation (usually repaired during surgery)

  • Temporary nasal pressure or congestion

  • Minor swelling or post-operative discomfort

  • Rare migration of graft material

These are typically mild and resolve quickly. Comprehensive post-operative instructions are provided for smooth healing.

📍 See Post-Operative Instructions →

Why Choose Dr. Onur Cavus for Sinus Lift Surgery?

  • Over 18 years of experience in oral surgery and implant dentistry

  • PhD in Oral Surgery (Marmara University, Turkey) and certified in IV sedation

  • Expertise in both lateral and crestal sinus lift techniques

  • Use of digital CBCT imaging and surgical guides for precision

  • Providing advanced implant and surgical care to patients from Toronto and North York

Book a Consultation

If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for dental implants, a sinus lift may be the solution that makes them possible.

Serving patients across Toronto and North York, Dr. Cavus provides advanced bone grafting and sinus augmentation procedures.

Book Your Consultation
Sinus lift and bone grafting in Toronto and North York by Dr. Onur Cavus — advanced lateral and crestal sinus elevation techniques for dental implant support.

Sinus Lift – Frequently Asked Questions

Is a sinus lift painful?
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, and sedation is available. Most patients report mild pressure or discomfort during recovery, easily managed with standard medications and cold compresses.
How long does healing take after a sinus lift?
Initial healing takes about two weeks. Graft maturation typically requires 4–6 months (internal lifts may heal faster) before final implant restoration.
Can implants be placed at the same time as a sinus lift?
Often, yes—with both internal (crestal) lift and lateral window technique, when adequate primary stability is achievable. This is confirmed after CBCT evaluation.
What’s the difference between lateral window and crestal (internal) approach?
The lateral window approach is used when a larger bone gain is required. The crestal (internal) approach elevates the sinus floor through the implant site for smaller gains (typically 2–4 mm).
What graft materials are used?
Graft materials may include autogenous bone, allograft, xenograft, or synthetic biomaterials. All are sterile, biocompatible, and chosen based on your anatomy and goals.
What are the main risks?
Potential risks include sinus membrane perforation, temporary congestion, infection, or graft exposure. With precise technique and proper aftercare, these risks are minimal.

In summary, Dr. Onur Cavus (BDS, PhD) and Implant Dentistry Toronto™ provide sinus lift and bone grafting procedures in Toronto and North York.

With over 18 years of surgical experience, Dr. Cavus offers both lateral-window and crestal techniques under IV sedation, ensuring safe, predictable preparation for dental implant success.