Have you been informed that you can’t get dental implants because your upper jaw has lost a lot of bone? Don’t lose hope just yet if that’s the case. Zygomatic dental implants are a specific type of implant that can be just what you require.
Zygomatic implants are different from regular implants since they are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the jawbone. This means they don’t need as much bone. Without bone grafts or a long recuperation time, this method has helped thousands of people get their smiles back.
We’ll address the most common questions and tell you everything you need to know about zygomatic dental implants in this post.
What are dental implants in the zygomatic area?
Zygomatic dental implants are a type of dental implant that is made for people who don’t have enough bone in their upper jaw (maxilla). These longer implants are not put into the upper jawbone; instead, they are anchored into the zygomatic bone, which is your cheekbone. This bone is denser and gives great support.
When standard implants aren’t possible because of extensive bone resorption, especially in the upper rear jaw, these are typically used.
Important Differences from Regular Implants:
- Length: Zygomatic implants are longer, ranging from 30 to 52.5 mm, while other types are just 8 to 15 mm long.
- Placement: in the cheekbone, not the jawbone.
- Need for Grafts: No need for bone grafts.
- Surgical Difficulty: Done by oral surgeons who have had further training.
Can I Get Zygomatic Dental Implants in My Lower Jaw?
No, zygomatic implants are not put in the lower jaw. They are made just for the upper jaw, where bone loss is harder to deal with because the sinuses are close by and the bone density is low.
If you need implants in your lower jaw and have lost bone there, there are other options, such as:
- Bone transplants using standard implants
- Short implants
- Depending on your situation, you may want to think about subperiosteal implants.
Always talk to a dental implant expert to get your jaw checked out and get their advice on the best solution.
Who Can Get Zygomatic Dental Implants?
Zygomatic implants are great for people who:
- Have lost a lot of bone in the upper jaw
- They have been told that they are not good candidates for conventional implants.
- Have been wearing dentures for a long time and want a permanent fix.
- Want to stay away from sinus lifts or bone grafts
- Want to see results faster and have fewer operations
Your dental surgeon will do a full evaluation and 3D scans to see if zygomatic implants are a good fit for you. Age isn’t usually a problem, but things like overall health, bone quality, and how well you take care of your teeth are.
How the Process Works
1. Planning and Evaluation
- Digital imaging and CT scans look at the structure of your bones.
- A treatment plan that is unique to you is established.
2. Surgery and sedation
- Most of the time, the procedure is done with IV sedation or general anaesthesia.
- Implants go through the gum and upper jaw and into the cheekbone.
- Teeth in a Day is the name for the process of putting in temporary teeth the same day.
3. Healing and Final Teeth
- It takes roughly 3 to 6 months for the healing to be complete.
- After the healing process, your permanent replacement teeth are put in place.
Advantages of Zygomatic Dental Implants Avoid Bone Grafting: This saves time and money by getting rid of the necessity for sinus lifts or grafts.
✅ Function Right Away
Many patients get a temporary prosthesis on the same day as their operation.
✅ Very high success rate
Even in difficult circumstances, the success percentages are about the same as with standard implants.
✅ Results that change lives
Helps in chewing, talking, and feeling good about yourself.
Things to Think About and Risks
Zygomatic implants, like any other surgery, come with some risks:
- Sinus problems (rare but conceivable)
- Pain or swelling in the cheek area
- A little longer time to get better
- Costs more out front than regular implants
That being said, the danger of problems is low and the chance of long-term success is high when a competent oral surgeon does the work.
Aftercare and recovery
Most people recover quickly and are able to go back to their normal activities within a few days. To help the healing process:
- For the first few weeks, eat only soft foods.
- Don’t drink or smoke.
- Follow all the instructions you get after surgery.
- Follow through with your planned check-ups and oral hygiene.
Cost and Coverage
Zygomatic implants are harder to put in and usually cost more than regular implants. Prices may be different, but you can expect:
- A whole arch costs between $15,000 and $30,000.
- Some insurance plans may pay for some of the treatment.
- Most dental offices offer payment options or financing.
Questions that come up a lot
Q: Are zygomatic implants safe?
Yes. They are a safe and effective option with a high success rate when put in by a trained oral surgeon.
Q: Will I get my teeth the same day?
Yes, in a lot of circumstances. A temporary bridge or denture is put in right away, and permanent teeth are added subsequently.
Q: How long do they stay?
Zygomatic implants can survive more than 15 years if they are taken care of properly.
Q: Does the operation hurt?
You won’t feel anything during the surgery because you will be asleep. Most of the time, pain after surgery can be controlled with medicine.
Last Thou@ghts
Patients with a lot of bone loss in their upper jaw can now get zygomatic dental implants, which are a game-changer. If someone informed you that you couldn’t get standard implants, this might be the option that ultimately gives you back your smile and confidence.
Are zygomatic implants good for you? 📞 Call us today for a one-on-one consultation and start the process of getting your smile back—no bone grafting needed.