For patients struggling with limited bone density, traditional dental implants may seem like an unattainable solution. However, thanks to advances in dental technology, zygomatic implants have emerged as a game-changing alternative. At our Fresno implant dentist office, we’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of zygomatic implants, which can restore smiles and confidence in patients who thought they had run out of options.

By anchoring implants in the zygomatic bone, rather than the jawbone, zygomatic implants offer a viable solution for patients with severe bone loss, providing a stable and durable foundation for dental restorations.

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants are a type of dental implant that is specifically designed for patients with limited bone density in the upper jaw. They are longer than traditional implants, typically measuring between 30-52.5 mm in length, and are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which is located in the cheekbone area.

What Are The Potential Benefits of Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants offer several benefits for patients with limited bone density, including:

• Increased stability: Zygomatic implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which provides a stable foundation for the implant.
• Reduced need for bone grafting: Unlike traditional implants, zygomatic implants do not require bone grafting, which can be a lengthy and invasive procedure.
• Faster recovery time: Zygomatic implant surgery typically requires less recovery time than traditional implant surgery.
• Improved aesthetics: Zygomatic implants can be used to support a fixed prosthetic, which can greatly improve the appearance of the smile.
• Increased functionality: Zygomatic implants can be used to support a fixed prosthetic, which can greatly improve the functionality of the teeth.

Who is an Ideal Candidate For Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants are typically recommended for patients who have:

• Severe bone loss in the upper jaw: Patients who have experienced significant bone loss due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other factors may be candidates for zygomatic implants.
• Failed traditional implant surgery: Patients who have undergone traditional implant surgery but have experienced failure due to insufficient bone density may be candidates for zygomatic implants.
• Limited bone density: Patients who have limited bone density in the upper jaw may be candidates for zygomatic implants.

How Are Zygomatic Implants Placed?

Zygomatic implants are placed through a surgical procedure that involves several steps:

Pre-Surgical Preparation

• Initial Consultation: The patient consults with a qualified implant dentist or oral surgeon to discuss their treatment options.
• Diagnostic Imaging: The dentist or surgeon takes diagnostic images, such as X-rays or CT scans, to evaluate the patient’s bone density and anatomy.
• Treatment Planning: The dentist or surgeon creates a personalized treatment plan, including the placement of zygomatic implants.

Surgical Procedure

• Anesthesia and Sedation: The patient is administered local anesthesia and sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure.
• Incision and Exposure: The surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue and exposes the zygomatic bone.
• Drilling and Placement: The surgeon drills a hole in the zygomatic bone and places the zygomatic implant.
• Abutment Attachment: The surgeon attaches an abutment to the implant, which will support the dental restoration.
• Closure: The surgeon closes the incision site and applies sutures.

Post-Surgical Recovery

• Recovery Time: The patient is monitored during the recovery period, which can take several hours.
• Pain Management: The patient is prescribed pain medication to manage any discomfort or pain.
• Follow-Up Appointments: The patient attends follow-up appointments to ensure the implant is healing properly.

Restoration Procedure

• Impressions and Modeling: The dentist takes impressions of the patient’s mouth and creates a model of the implant and surrounding teeth.
• Restoration Fabrication: The dentist fabricates a custom dental restoration, such as a crown or bridge.
• Restoration Placement: The dentist places the restoration on the abutment, completing the zygomatic implant procedure.

If you are considering zygomatic implants, consult with a qualified surgeon to determine if this treatment option is right for you.