SINUS AUGMENTATION BY ORTHODONTIC MOVEMENT AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO A SURGICAL SINUS LIFT: A CLINICAL REPORT

Maxillary sinus pneumatization may significantly reduce the alveolar bone height. As a result, the sinus membrane may need to be apically repositioned, with or without grafts, before or at the time of implant placement. The sinus lift, however, is a relatively invasive surgical procedure that can lead to complications and sometimes unsuccessful results. This clinical report presents an orthodontic movement to enlarge the amount of bone at the sinus region for implant placement. The approach avoided surgery in a patient who used tobacco and exhibited recurrent sinusitis.