Quick answer
A bone graft adds or preserves bone; a sinus lift increases bone height beneath the upper back teeth by carefully elevating the sinus lining and placing graft material. Need and timing should be based on examination and 3D imaging, not a package estimate.
When might grafting be considered?
- Bone loss after long-term tooth loss
- Previous infection or trauma
- A thin ridge that cannot safely support the planned implant
- Limited bone height below the maxillary sinus
- A defect created when an infected tooth is removed
Alternative implant positions, staged treatment or a non-implant option may sometimes be discussed. Ask why grafting is recommended and what happens if it is not performed.
Can the implant and graft be completed together?
Sometimes a minor graft and implant placement can be combined. Larger defects or limited primary stability may require graft healing before implant surgery. The decision changes the number of visits and total timeline.
What affects bone graft or sinus lift cost?
Cost depends on defect size, graft material, membranes, sedation, imaging, clinician, facility and whether treatment is combined with implant placement. Request a separate line for each component and ask which findings could change the preliminary quote.
How should international patients plan recovery?
Follow the surgeon’s instructions on medication, oral hygiene, pressure changes and flying. After a sinus procedure, actions that increase sinus pressure may be restricted. Build time for a review before departure and keep the clinic’s emergency contact details.
Learn more about dental implant planning in Istanbul.
Frequently asked questions
Does every upper implant need a sinus lift?
No. It depends on bone height, implant position, anatomy and the selected treatment plan.
Is graft material taken from my own body?
Autogenous bone is one option; processed human, animal-derived or synthetic materials may also be considered. Ask exactly what is proposed.
Will grafting add another trip?
It may. Larger grafts often require healing before implant placement, while selected minor grafts can be combined.
What symptoms need urgent advice?
Heavy bleeding, breathing difficulty, rapidly increasing swelling, fever, worsening pain or other concerning symptoms require prompt professional assessment.
Clarify grafting before booking flights
Share recent scans where available so the clinical team can explain whether grafting may change your stages, stay or quote.
Request a personalised reviewSources and further reading
- General Dental Council: Going abroad for dental treatment
- GOV.UK: Turkey health and medical tourism advice
Last reviewed: August 2026. General information only; diagnosis, suitability, costs and travel timing require an individual assessment by the treating clinician.
