Sinus floor augmentation

Although the relevant improvement of implant shapes and surfaces occurred in the last years has allowed predictable long-term survival of implant-supported prosthetic restorations also in case of reduced bone availability, in the posterior maxilla bone augmentation is often required to increase the deficient bone volume caused by atrophy and/or sinus pneumatization. Bone augmentation can be obtained with different grafting materials and with different surgical procedures, including not only transalveolar or lateral window sinus floor elevation, but also lateral or vertical augmentation, when indicated. Although a huge amount of literature is nowadays available, relevant controversy is still present as regards the more appropriate augmentation procedure and the more appropriate graft material to be used. Aim of this lecture is to present an updated review of current literature in order to give reliable information and rational treatment protocols to optimize results in the rehabilitation of the atrophic posterior maxilla.