Zygomatic Dental Implants: Complete Guide for Severe Bone Loss Cases

November 23, 2024

Zygomatic dental implants offer a specialized solution for patients with severe maxillary bone loss who cannot receive traditional dental implants. Recent research from the Clinical Surgery Journal (2023) analyzed 6,628 implants in 2,913 patients, demonstrating their effectiveness in complex cases. These specialized implants, measuring 30-52.5 millimeters, anchor into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) instead of the upper jaw.

The treatment shows impressive success rates – 96.2% over 6.3 years according to the International Team for Implantology’s research. While costs range from $15,000 to $50,000 in the US and start from £10,000 in the UK, more affordable options exist in countries like Turkey ($1,500-$5,000 per implant). The procedure takes 2-4 hours under general anesthesia, with a healing period of 4-6 months.

In this blog post, we explore zygomatic dental implants—an advanced solution for severe bone loss cases. Based on recent research from the International Team for Implantology and Clinical Surgery Journal (2023), we’ll examine success rates, surgical procedures, costs, and recovery processes. Our comprehensive guide includes expert insights on patient eligibility, treatment steps, and long-term care. Whether you’re considering this treatment or researching options for severe maxillary bone loss, you’ll find detailed information about this innovative dental solution that has helped thousands of patients restore their smiles.

What Are Zygomatic Dental Implants?

Zygomatic dental implants are long titanium screws that doctors place in the cheekbone (zygomatic bone). This unique placement allows for the support of prosthetic teeth in patients who may not have enough bone density in their upper jaw for traditional implants. These implants are significantly longer than standard dental implants, ranging from 30 to 52.5 millimeters, according to the International Journal of Oral Implantology¹ , enabling them to achieve stability in this denser bone structure. Dentists use these implants to support full upper arch tooth replacements.

How Do Zygomatic Implants Work in Severe Maxillary Bone Loss?

The implant anchors into the zygomatic bone instead of the upper jaw. This bone provides stable support for dental prosthetics. Doctors place two to four zygomatic implants to support a full set of upper teeth. The implants connect to a fixed bridge that holds replacement teeth.

In this video, Dr. Christian Loetscher – 25 years of experience in the art of surgery – facial reconstruction, and implant rehabilitation, provides an in-depth overview of zygomatic implants. He discusses their design, placement procedures, and the advantages they offer for patients with severe maxillary bone loss.

What Makes the Zygomatic Bone Ideal for Implant Support?

The zygomatic bone has dense, strong structure. This bone maintains its density over time. The cheekbone’s strength lets it hold implants securely. The bone’s position helps create natural-looking tooth replacements.

What Is the Anatomy of a Zygomatic Implant?

Zygomatic implants measure 30-52.5 millimeters in length. The implant has three main parts:

A threaded body that goes into the bone
A smooth middle section that passes through the sinus
A head that connects to artificial teeth

Who Can Get Zygomatic Dental Implants?

These implants help patients with:

Severe upper jaw bone loss
Failed traditional implants
Bone loss from gum disease
Seeking a quicker restoration process
Birth defects affecting jaw structure

Zygomatic dental implants are primarily intended for individuals who suffer from severe bone loss in the upper jaw, which may be due to a variety of factors, including periodontal disease, trauma, or long-term denture use. Candidates for these implants often have insufficient bone structure to support traditional dental implants.

Moreover, they are a viable option for patients who have been told they do not qualify for dental implants due to extensive bone loss or who wish to avoid bone grafts. These implants can offer a more straightforward solution, minimizing the need for extensive preparatory procedures.

In addition to those with significant bone loss, zygomatic implants may also benefit patients who have experienced complications with previous dental implant procedures. For instance, individuals who have faced implant failure due to inadequate bone density can find renewed hope in zygomatic implants, as these are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which is typically denser and more stable. This unique placement allows for a secure foundation for the prosthetic teeth, providing enhanced stability and functionality.

Furthermore, zygomatic implants can be particularly advantageous for patients who are seeking a quicker restoration process. Traditional methods often require multiple surgeries and lengthy healing periods, but zygomatic implants can often be placed in a single surgical session, allowing for immediate loading of the prosthesis. This efficiency not only saves time but also significantly reduces the overall treatment duration, making it an appealing choice for those eager to regain their smile and improve their quality of life without prolonged waiting periods.

What Conditions Make You a Good Candidate?

Patients need:

Good overall health
Healthy gum tissue
No active infections
Sufficient cheekbone density

When Are Standard Implants Not Enough?

Standard implants fail when:

The upper jaw bone is too thin
Bone grafts have failed
Sinus cavities are too large
Disease has destroyed the jaw bone

What Happens During Zygomatic Implant Surgery?

Surgeons must select specific techniques for each patient according to research published in the International Journal of Implant Dentistry (April 2023). Dr. Chantal Malevez’s systematic review shows that proper surgical technique choice directly affects implant survival rates. The surgery takes these steps:

Doctors give general anesthesia
They make small cuts in the gum tissue
They place implants through the upper jaw into the cheekbone
They attach temporary teeth
Healing takes 4-6 months
Doctors attach permanent teeth

In this informative video, the process of placing zygomatic implants is thoroughly explained with infographics.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

The surgery takes 2-4 hours. The exact time depends on:

Number of implants needed
Patient’s anatomy
Additional procedures required

What Type of Anesthesia Is Used?

Doctors use general anesthesia. This ensures:

Patient comfort
No movement during surgery
Controlled breathing
Safe access to surgical sites

How Much Do Zygomatic Implants Cost?

Zygomatic implants cost $15,000 to $50,000 in the US, while the cost in the UK starts from £10,000 on average and $1,500 to $5,000 per implant in Turkey. The price includes:

Surgery
Implant materials
Temporary teeth
Final prosthetics

What Factors Affect the Price?

These factors change costs:

Number of implants
Type of final teeth
Location of clinic
Doctor’s experience
Additional procedures

Does Insurance Cover This Treatment?

Most insurance plans do not cover zygomatic implants. Some plans may pay for:

Initial consultation
CT scans
Part of the prosthetics

What Results Can You Expect?

Research from the International Team for Implantology (March 2023) shows that immediate loading of zygomatic implants increases survival rates compared to delayed loading. Patients get:

Fixed, non-removable teeth
Normal bite function
Natural appearance
Improved speech
Better facial support

How Long Do Zygomatic Implants Last?

These implants last 20+ years with proper care. Success depends on:

Good oral hygiene
Regular dental checkups
Avoiding tobacco use
Treating teeth grinding

What Is the Success Rate?

Studies show 95-98% success rates. According to research published in Clinical Surgery Journal in January 2023², a systematic review of 6,628 zygomatic implants showed a 94.9% success rate over 3.1 years. The International Team for Implantology’s consensus workshop³, published in the Journal of Implant Dentistry (March 2023), reported an even higher long-term survival rate of 96.2% over 6.3 years. This high success comes from:

Strong cheekbone support
Precise surgical techniques
Careful patient selection
Advanced imaging guidance

What Complications Should You Know About?

According to the International Team for Implantology (ITI) Consensus Workshop findings published in the Journal of Implant Dentistry (March 2023), sinusitis occurs in 14.2% of cases. The Clinical Surgery Journal’s 2023 review³ identifies these main complications:

Peri-implantitis
Prosthetic-related issues
Sinus infections

Doctors monitor these issues through regular checkups. Early detection helps prevent implant failure.

What Other Dental Treatments Should You Know About?

Patients should understand all options. Different treatments suit different needs. Your dentist will recommend the best choice for your case.

How Does Bone Grafting Compare to Zygomatic Implants?

Bone grafts add bone to your jaw. This process takes 4-6 months. Some patients prefer zygomatic implants to avoid grafting.

What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?

All-on-4 implants use four standard implants. These work for mild to moderate bone loss. Severe cases need zygomatic implants.
Read more: Full-Guide To All On Four Dental Implants

When Is Sinus Lift Surgery Needed?

Sinus lifts add bone below the sinus. This helps standard implants fit. Some patients need this before getting implants.
Read more: Sinus Lift Treatment: Procedure, Aftercare, Cost and More

How Do Regular and Zygomatic Implants Differ?

Regular implants go into the jaw bone. Zygomatic implants reach the cheekbone. Each type suits different patients.

What Are Immediate Load Implants?

These implants support teeth right after surgery. Your doctor will tell you if this option suits you.

How Does Recovery Time Compare Between Implant Types?

Recovery takes:

Standard implants: 3-6 months
Zygomatic implants: 4-6 months
All-on-4: 3-4 months

How Do You Clean Zygomatic Implants?

Clean implants with:

Soft toothbrush
Water flosser
Special brushes
Antimicrobial rinse

What Diet Should You Follow After Surgery?

Eat soft foods for 6-8 weeks. Avoid:

Hard foods
Sticky items
Very hot drinks
Straws

When Should You See Your Dentist?

Visit your dentist:

One week after surgery
Monthly for the first 3 months
Every 3-6 months after healing
Any time problems occur

SOURCE and REFERENCES:
1. Sharma R, Anand D, Choudhary A,
Hasti A, Vikram J. An Introduction to the Longest Fixtures:
Zygomatic Implants. Int J Oral Implantol Clin Res 2016;7(3):59-63
2. Gebretsadik HG. An update on the success rate of the zygomatic implant in Orofacial reconstructive surgery: A 20 years systematic review. Clin Surg J. 2023;4(1):1–6.
3. Al-Nawas, B., Aghaloo, T., Aparicio, C. et al. ITI consensus report on zygomatic implants: indications, evaluation of surgical techniques and long-term treatment outcomes. Int J Implant Dent 9, 28 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40729-023-00489-9
4. Kämmerer, P.W., Fan, S., Aparicio, C. et al. Evaluation of surgical techniques in survival rate and complications of zygomatic implants for the rehabilitation of the atrophic edentulous maxilla: a systematic review. Int J Implant Dent 9, 11 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40729-023-00478-y