Zygomatic Implant Treatment
Zygomatic implants are an advanced treatment option used for patients with severe tooth loss. Unlike conventional root-form dental implants, zygomatic implants are surgically placed into the zygomatic (cheekbone) bone. These implants are significantly longer than standard dental implants, typically ranging from 30 to 55 millimeters in length.
Zygomatic implants may be preferred for patients whose upper jawbone lacks sufficient strength, has suffered severe damage, or has experienced significant bone resorption. In such cases, conventional dental implant treatment often requires additional procedures such as bone grafting (bone augmentation) or sinus lift surgery before implant placement. Zygomatic implants can offer a faster and effective alternative to these long and complex treatment processes.
Who Is Suitable for Zygomatic Implant Treatment?
Zygomatic implants may be suitable for patients who:
- Have been using removable dentures for a long time
- Have severe damage or bone loss in the upper jaw due to infection, trauma, or similar causes
- Have compromised gum tissue or various periodontal problems
- Experienced tooth loss at an early age
- Cannot benefit from standard dental implant treatments due to insufficient jawbone strength
What Is the Zygomatic Implant Treatment Process?
- The treatment process begins with a volumetric dental tomography scan to evaluate the structure and condition of the patient’s jawbone.
- Using this scan, the positions of the cheekbone (zygoma) and upper jawbone are precisely identified.
- A customized treatment plan is prepared by the dentist and presented to the patient, along with the proposed prosthetic design.
- Once the patient gives approval, the implants are prepared.
- Zygomatic implant placement is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon under general anesthesia.
- The procedure typically takes approximately two hours.
After the procedure, it is essential for the patient to be careful and attentive to oral hygiene. Following the dentist’s recommendations plays a crucial role in ensuring long-term success and preventing future complications.
What Are the Advantages of Zygomatic Implant Treatment?
- Patients with severe upper jawbone resorption or damage may not require bone grafting procedures
- Provides an effective solution in cases where conventional dental implant treatments are not possible
- Patients may receive fixed teeth on the same day as the procedure
- Offers a treatment solution for patients with cleft lip and/or cleft palate–related tooth loss
- Zygomatic implants can support more teeth than standard implant systems
- Can be used to treat failed conventional implant treatments
