Improvements in the Crestal Osteotome Approach Have Decreased the Need for the Lateral Window Approach to Augment the Maxilla

The use of the crestal approach to augment vertical height of the posterior maxilla for dental implant placement is reviewed in this article. The review of the literature documents the success of using a procedure that has minimal complications associated with it when performed correctly. An algorithmic approach is presented to guide surgeons on using the crestal osteotome approach for posterior maxillary augmentation.