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Dental Implants
May 7, 2025
11 min read

Do I Need a Bone Graft or Sinus Lift for a Dental Implant?

Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP

By Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP

Lead Dentist at Innova Smiles Dental

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP • Last reviewed May 7, 2025
Do I Need a Bone Graft or Sinus Lift for a Dental Implant?

After tooth loss, the jawbone can shrink. If there isn’t enough height or width for a stable implant—especially in the upper back jaw near the sinus—a bone graft or sinus lift may be recommended to create a solid foundation and improve long‑term success.

Why Bone Loss Happens

Without a tooth root, bone resorbs over time. The sooner replacement is planned, the more native bone we can preserve.

Types of Bone Grafts

  • Socket preservation: At the time of extraction to protect the ridge.
  • Ridge augmentation: To increase width/height for stability and esthetics.
  • Sinus lift: Elevates the sinus membrane to gain vertical height for upper molar/premolar implants.

What to Expect

  • Local anesthesia with comfort‑focused protocols
  • Healing time before implant placement or simultaneous placement when appropriate
  • Follow‑ups to confirm readiness for the next phase

E‑E‑A‑T: Dr. Fatima’s FICOI training supports precise diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques to reduce trauma and enhance predictability.

Your Questions, Answered (Marlborough & MetroWest)

We’ll review 3D imaging, your timeline, and budget. Many patients in the I‑495 corridor prefer sequencing that minimizes time off work.


Considering implants but unsure about bone grafting? Call (508) 481‑0110 or request a consultation.

Innova Smiles Dental serves patients in Marlborough, MA and nearby communities including Hudson, Westborough, Northborough, Southborough, Sudbury, and Framingham.

Dr. Ambereen Fatima headshot
Dr. Ambereen Fatima, DDS, FICOI, FAAIP
Lead Dentist at Innova Smiles Dental

Dr. Fatima is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI) and the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics (FAAIP). She combines advanced implant and restorative training with a comfort‑first approach to care.

Her interests include dental implants, cosmetic smile design, clear aligners, and comprehensive restorative dentistry— helping patients in Marlborough, MA regain confidence and long‑term oral health.

Read full biography
Considering dental implants?
Learn how single implants, bridges, and full-arch options can restore your smile with comfort-first care.

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