Simplifying management of the posterior maxilla using short, porous-surfaced dental implants and simultaneous indirect sinus elevation.

Abstract

This article describes the use of short, porous-surfaced root-form dental implants and an indirect, simultaneous, osteotome-mediated sinus elevation procedure to restore the posterior maxilla when as little as 3 mm of bone remain below the sinus floor. Results with 16 patients who are part of an ongoing prospective clinical trial using the Endopore implant show 100% success (using established criteria) with a mean implant length of 6.9 mm and a mean functional time of 11.1 months. This treatment approach greatly simplifies the management of the posterior maxilla with minimal bone height below the sinus floor.