Treatment Option for Patients with Severe Bone Loss
Zygomatic (cheekbone) dental implants offer a solution for patients who may not be candidates for traditional implants due to bone loss in the upper jaw.
Unlike traditional implants that are placed in the jawbone, zygomatic dental implants are anchored in the zygomatic bone. They are longer than traditional implants. Benefits include:
Efficient and Time-Saving Solutions
Bone grafts can lengthen healing time. Zygomatic implants eliminate these additional surgeries, resulting in shorter treatment times.
Improved Stability
The cheekbone provides a stable base for zygomatic implants. In many cases, patients can have temporary teeth attached to the implants on the same day as surgery, allowing for immediate function. The increased stability of the zygomatic implant ensures a secure fit.
Improving Oral Function
Zygomatic implants restore oral function so patients can eat, talk, and smile with confidence. Unlike traditional dentures, zygomatic implant dentures provide improved stability and allow for chewing a wide variety of foods.
Consultation and Treatment Flow
The first step for those with missing teeth or bone loss wanting dental implants is to schedule a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS). The treatment process typically includes the following steps:
- Evaluation and treatment plan: Your OMS will assess your oral health, perform imaging studies, and create a personalized treatment plan for your unique situation.
- Implant placement: Zygomatic implants are surgically placed in the cheekbone under local or general anesthesia.
- Temporary denture: In many cases, a temporary upper bridge of prosthetic teeth can be attached to the implant immediately after surgery. This allows you to leave surgery with a fixed prosthesis while the implants heal and integrate with the bone.
- Final denture: Once the healing process is complete, a permanent upper bridge consisting of new teeth (fixed denture) is custom-made and attached to the implants, providing a long-term solution to missing teeth.
If you have been told that traditional dental implants are not an option for you, contact an OMS to discuss the possibility of zygomatic dental implants.
