Zygomatic Implants: A Solution for Severe Bone Loss

In case when there is severe bone loss in your upper jaw conventional dental implants fail to give lasting results unless you perform invasive procedures like sinus augmentation or bone grafting first. A better option in this case is zygomatic implants.

These are special implants that anchor into your strong cheekbone, called the zygomatic bone. Normal implants only anchor into your weak jawbone which results in their shorter life. You cannot use these implants when there is severe maxillary bone loss since in this case the initial grip of the implant is weak. Over time the implant loses its stability and breaks away from the tissues.

This detailed guide looks into zygomatic implants in detail. It highlights what these implants are, how they work, and when you should consider getting them. So, let’s get right into it.

• What Are Zygomatic Implants?
• How Are Zygomatic Implants Different from Normal Dental Implants?
• Who Needs Zygomatic Dental Implants?
• The Procedure for Zygomatic Dental Implants
• Benefits of Zygomatic Implants
• Recovery and Aftercare Following Zygomatic Dental Implants

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants refer to a specific type of implant that experts from specialist dental services in London anchor in your cheekbone or zygomatic bone. These implants bypass the weak or absent jawbone for anchorage. Instead, they are secured in the much denser zygomatic bone which results in better long-term implant performance.

Research shows a long-term zygomatic implant survival rate of about 96.2% at a mean follow-up of 75.4 months.

Zygomatic implants are much longer in size than traditional implants. This is because the distance between the anchorage point and the prosthetic teeth in this case is large. A successful zygomatic implant results in a much stronger foundation for prosthetic teeth which restores full dental functionality.

This technique serves patients with severe maxillary bone resorption which results either from injuries or tumor surgeries. Patients with severe maxillary atrophy, trauma-related bone loss, failed dental implants, and unsuccessful bone grafting can also get this treatment.

How Are Zygomatic Implants Different from Normal Dental Implants?

The main difference between zygomatic and normal dental implants is in the anchoring point of the implant. A conventional dental implant goes into your jawbone where the root of your tooth normally exists. This implant needs both high quality and quantity of jawbone to achieve long-term stability.

The zygomatic implants are typically longer as they are anchored in the zygoma or the cheekbone. Depending on your dental health, this restorative dentistry treatment may include some conventional implants or four zygomatic implants “quad zygoma approach” in cases where the jawbone loss is severe.

Here are some key differences between these dental implants to give you a better idea.

Who Needs Zygomatic Dental Implants?

Zygomatic full arch implants are the final resort for a specific group of patients who cannot get normal implants due to severe upper-jaw anatomy issues. Here are a few cases when doctors suggest this treatment.

• Patients who suffer from severe maxillary atrophy or bone loss in the upper jaw get this treatment. In this case the bone in the posterior maxilla is very insufficient which makes normal implants less feasible.
• You might also need zygomatic implants when the jawbone is either very thin or very short and hence it fails to provide stability to the normal implants. 
• This option is also ideal for patients for whom extensive bone grafting or sinus augmentation for dental implants in London is not ideal. It eliminates surgical stages and healing time associated with these procedures.
• Zygomatic implants are the last resort for patients who suffer from failed dental bone grafts or previous implants. 
• These implants are also an option for patients who have suffered maxillary bone loss due to trauma, surgical removal of tumors, and congenital defects.
• Patients in need of a full-arch rehabilitation can also get zygomatic implants.

The Procedure for Zygomatic Dental Implants

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of a typical zygomatic dental implant. 

• The treatment starts with a comprehensive assessment of your dental health. Specialists look at your jawbone, facial anatomy, and sinuses before they recommend the procedure.
• To make an accurate assessment, they conduct 3D imaging or CBCT scans. This helps them plan the implant trajectory with accuracy.
• During the surgery a specially designed implant goes into the upper jaw region towards the zygomatic bone while you are kept under local or general anesthesia.
• After implant placement, dentists place a temporary dental prosthesis on the site in the same appointment. This is not possible when you go with normal implants where you have to wait for several weeks before you can get temporary prosthetic teeth for normal functionality.

It is also important to note that depending on your remaining maxillary bone you can either get conventional implants in areas with sufficient bone or one zygomatic implant on each side along with conventional implants.

You can also get Zygomatic implants on one side for selected unilateral defects. In extreme bone deficiency cases, you need four zygomatic implants in a quad zygoma approach.

Benefits of Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are a lifesaver for patients with severe jawbone loss who cannot get bone grafting, sinus lifts, or normal dental implants. Here is what makes this procedure effective.

• Effective for Patients with Severely Resorbed Jawbone

Patients with severe resorption of the alveolar ridge or jawbone can get zygomatic implants to get a natural smile and to restore their dental functionality.

• Eliminates the Need for Extensive Bone Grafting

This treatment reduces the need for extensive bone augmentation or grafting, which simplifies the treatment pathway by reducing healing or recovery time.

• Offers Support for Fixed Full-Arch Teeth

Zygomatic implants are mostly used for full-arch rehabilitation where they create a strong foundation for your complete arch in a single appointment.

• Allows for the Simplification of the Treatment Path

Studies show zygomatic implants reduce the need for extensive bone grafting, reduce dependence on sinus augmentation, and potentially shorten the overall treatment pathway.

It also allows for immediate loading of the prosthetic teeth. This reduces the healing time and allows you to chew soft foods sooner and speak more clearly much faster.  

Recovery and Aftercare Following Zygomatic Dental Implants

The first week after the implant is when you need to focus solely on healing or swelling management. The swelling usually goes away within 7 to 10 days. The full healing or implant integration can take several months.

• Experts suggest you should avoid physically intense activities and keep your head elevated at this time.
• You also need to know the main foods to avoid after dental implants to promote faster recovery. Do not eat chewy or hard foods as they can lead to implant stability issues down the line.
• Make sure to go for regular follow‑up visits. This helps the dentists determine the extent of healing and the early signs of implant failure.
• Make sure to maintain good oral hygiene by regularly cleaning around the temporary teeth.

Conclusion

Patients with severe maxillary bone resorption can get zygomatic implants to restore their oral health. These implants go into your cheekbone, which is denser than the jawbone where you get normal implants. This results in greater durability and lower implant failure risks.

This treatment eliminates the need for excessive bone grafting or sinus lift surgeries. As a result the healing or recovery requirements and the complications associated with these procedures are reduced significantly.

However, you need to consult with a specialist to determine whether you really need a zygomatic implant or not.

These professionals consider your facial anatomy, extent of bone loss, or treatment goals to make a more informed choice about whether you need to get this specialized and complex treatment or if you can simply get normal dental implants to restore your dental health.

Schedule a consultation with Specialist Dentist Services today to get the best zygomatic implant dental surgery treatment for severe bone loss. Our specialists ensure high implant success rates and a faster recovery with state-of-the-art treatment methods and patient-centric follow-up care.