Severe bone loss in the upper jaw can make traditional dental implants more challenging, often requiring additional procedures like bone grafting to ensure success. This can feel discouraging for some patients, especially when bone loss affects both function and appearance.
Fortunately, zygomatic bone implants offer a proven alternative, making it possible to restore oral health and confidence without the need for grafting. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at zygomatic implants — what they are, who they’re suitable for, the key benefits they offer and what to expect during the procedure.
What are zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic bone implants are a type of dental implant designed to be anchored in the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone. Unlike standard dental implants, which are placed into the upper jawbone (maxilla), zygomatic implants bypass the weakened or absent bone in the jaw and are secured in the much denser zygomatic bone.
These implants are considerably longer than traditional implants to accommodate the distance between the prosthetic teeth and their anchorage point. Once placed, they provide a solid foundation for dental prostheses, such as bridges or full-arch restorations, enabling patients with compromised bone structure to regain full dental functionality.
How zygomatic implants address bone loss
To understand why zygomatic implants are effective, it helps to look at the relationship between bone loss and dental implants. Traditional implants depend on osseointegration, which is the process by which bone fuses with the implant for stability. However, when there is insufficient bone, the implant cannot integrate successfully, increasing the risk of failure.
Zygomatic implants are designed to circumvent this challenge. By anchoring into the zygomatic bone (a structure naturally denser and more robust than the maxillary bone), these implants provide a reliable anchor even in cases of advanced bone deterioration. This allows patients with extensive upper jawbone loss to receive tooth implants and achieve a stable, long-lasting result without bone grafting or sinus lift surgeries.
For patients dealing with both tooth implants and bone loss, zygomatic implants provide a strategic solution by bypassing the weakened jawbone and anchoring securely in the cheekbone.
Who should get zygomatic bone implants
Zygomatic implants are most commonly recommended for patients who have experienced significant bone resorption in the upper jaw, often due to:
- Long-term absence of natural teeth, leading to maxillary bone shrinkage.
- Untreated periodontal disease, which can accelerate bone loss.
- Failure of previous dental implants due to inadequate bone support.
- Ineligibility or unwillingness to undergo complex bone grafting procedures.
- Conditions like maxillary atrophy or congenital defects affecting jawbone integrity.
For these patients, zygomatic bone implants can serve as a practical alternative when conventional dental implants are no longer feasible.
Benefits of zygomatic implants
Opting for zygomatic implants provides numerous advantages, especially for patients with severe upper jawbone loss:
- Elimination of bone grafting — By anchoring directly into the cheekbone, zygomatic bone implants remove the need for additional surgeries like bone grafts or sinus lifts.
- Faster treatment timeline — Many patients benefit from immediate load protocols, allowing for quicker restoration of dental function.
- High success rates — Research shows excellent long-term outcomes, even in challenging cases where traditional implants have failed.
- Preservation of oral structure — Tooth loss and bone resorption weaken the overall stability of the jaw and surrounding structures. Replacing lost teeth with zygomatic implants helps maintain proper alignment and supports a healthy bite.
- Enhanced comfort and stability — Once fully integrated, zygomatic implants provide strong, stable support for dental prostheses, allowing patients to eat, speak and smile with confidence.
The procedure for zygomatic implants — what to expect
The surgical process for zygomatic implants is more complex than that of standard implants. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what the procedure involves:
- Initial consultation and treatment planning — First, your oral surgeon or specialist will review your dental and medical history. This visit helps determine whether zygomatic implants are suitable for your needs and includes a discussion of your goals, expectations and any questions you may have.
- Comprehensive assessment — Next, a detailed diagnostic assessment is performed, often involving 3D imaging such as CT scans. These images provide a clear view of your bone structure and density, helping the surgical team map out the safest and most effective implant placement.
- Surgical insertion — Under general or local anaesthesia, the surgeon inserts the zygomatic implants through the upper jawbone and into the zygomatic bone. In many cases, one or two implants are placed on each side of the upper jaw, depending on the extent of bone loss.
- Immediate loading — A significant advantage of zygomatic bone implants is the possibility of immediate loading, where a temporary dental prosthesis is attached during the same surgical appointment. This means patients can leave with functional teeth rather than waiting months for healing before prosthetics are placed.
- Post-operative monitoring — After the initial placement, follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the implants are integrating correctly. The final prosthetic teeth are typically fitted after the initial healing phase.
Side effects and recovery time for zygomatic implants
The recovery time for zygomatic implants typically spans several months, with most patients ready for their final prosthetics within three to six months after surgery. Immediately after the procedure, swelling, mild discomfort and bruising are common but usually subside within two weeks. Your dental team will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including advice on maintaining oral hygiene, managing discomfort and dietary restrictions.
Compared to traditional implants that may require bone grafts (extending treatment time by many months), zygomatic implants offer a more streamlined path to full dental rehabilitation.
Potential risks and considerations
Like all surgical procedures, zygomatic bone implants carry some risks. These include:
- Surgical complexity — The surgery is intricate and should only be performed by experienced professionals familiar with zygomatic anatomy.
- Initial discomfort — Patients may experience temporary swelling, bruising or numbness in the cheeks or lips.
- Sinus complications — Since the implants pass near the sinus cavity, there is a slight risk of sinusitis or other sinus-related issues, though these are generally manageable.
- Nerve sensitivity — In rare cases, nerve irritation can cause tingling or numbness, usually resolving over time.
Your surgeon will walk you through all potential risks during your consultation, ensuring you’re fully informed before proceeding.
Is zygomatic implant surgery right for you?
Choosing zygomatic bone implants involves evaluating factors such as the extent of bone loss, your medical history and personal preferences. If you’ve been told that standard implants are not an option due to significant bone deterioration, a consultation with an implant specialist can determine if zygomatic implants are a suitable solution.
The evaluation will include detailed scans and a personalised treatment plan outlining the procedure, expected outcomes and recovery timeline.
Start your journey to a healthier, more confident smile with Sydney Implant Institute
If you’re considering zygomatic bone implants to restore your oral health and smile, the expert team at Sydney Implant Institute is ready to support you. We specialise in advanced dental implant procedures and tailor each treatment plan to meet individual needs.
Book now for a personalised consultation, or explore our dental implant pricing packages to learn more about your options.
