Zygomatic Dental Implants: An Advanced Solution for Severe Maxillary Bone Loss

November 23, 2024

Last updated on March 20th, 2025

Zygomatic dental implants offer a specialized solution for patients with severe maxillary bone loss who cannot receive traditional dental implants. These specialized implants, measuring 35-55 millimeters, anchor into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) instead of the upper jaw.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what zygomatic implants are, how they work, and why they might be the perfect solution for you or someone you know. We’ll examine surgical procedures, recovery processes, advantages, costs, and success rates. 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 represent an advanced and specialized dental solution designed for individuals experiencing significant bone loss in the upper jaw, also known as the maxilla. Unlike traditional dental implants that rely on the jawbone for anchorage, zygomatic implants are longer, ranging from 35 to 55 millimeters, according to the International Journal of Oral Implantology¹, and are strategically placed to anchor into the zygomatic bone or cheekbone. This innovative approach provides a stable foundation for dental restorations, such as bridges or dentures, even in cases where the jawbone has severely deteriorated. The introduction of zygomatic implants has offered new hope for patients who were previously told they were not suitable candidates for traditional dental implants due to insufficient bone.

Why Consider Zygomatic Implants?

For many patients, losing teeth is not just about aesthetics—it can seriously affect how you eat, speak, and smile. Traditional dental implants require a healthy jawbone to support them. However, factors such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, or even long-term use of unanchored dentures can lead to significant bone deterioration. Here’s why zygomatic implants might be the best option:

Bypass Bone Grafting: Traditional implants often need bone grafts or sinus lifts when there isn’t enough jawbone. Zygomatic implants eliminate—or at least reduce—the need for these additional procedures, saving time and reducing overall treatment costs.
Immediate Loading: In many cases, patients are able to have a provisional set of teeth fixed almost immediately. This means you can leave the dental office with a new smile much faster than the traditional waiting period associated with bone grafts.
Enhanced Stability: By anchoring into the denser zygomatic bone, these implants provide remarkable stability, which is especially beneficial when the upper jaw’s bone quality is compromised.
Reduced Treatment Time: Without the need for bone grafting and lengthy healing periods, patients often enjoy a faster overall treatment timeline.

These benefits make zygomatic dental implants a revolutionary option for those who have been told that conventional implants aren’t suitable.

Advantages Over Traditional Implants

When comparing traditional dental implants to zygomatic ones, several clear differences emerge:

Feature	Zygomatic Implants	Bone Grafting with Traditional Implants
# of Implants	Usually, 4-6 implants	Usually 4-6 implants
Healing Time	Typically, 1–2 per side	Longer, 6-12 months before implant placement
Need for Sinus Lift	Not required	Often necessary
Jawbone Requirement	Uses dense zygomatic bone	Requires sufficient jawbone
# of Surgeries	Fewer surgeries	Multiple surgeries (bone grafting + implant placement)

This table highlights how zygomatic implants provide a streamlined alternative for patients who might otherwise face multiple procedures with traditional methods.

The Science Behind the Procedure

How It Works

Unlike standard dental implants that are placed directly into the jawbone, zygomatic implants are strategically inserted at an angle—typically around 45 degrees—to reach the cheekbone. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

Pre-Surgical Planning:
Before any surgery, a thorough consultation is conducted. Detailed imaging techniques like CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) scans are used to map the patient’s facial structure. This ensures that the surgeon can plan the optimal path for implant placement, minimizing risks and enhancing success rates.
Surgical Procedure:
Under intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia (and sometimes local anesthesia in specific cases), the surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue. Special instruments are then used to prepare the zygomatic bone for the implant. The implant, which can be as long as 55 mm, is carefully inserted, ensuring it securely anchors into the cheekbone. Often, one or two implants per side are used, sometimes in combination with traditional implants placed in the front of the jaw.
Immediate Restoration:
In many instances, a provisional prosthesis (temporary teeth or a bridge) is attached right away. This immediate loading helps the patient function and smile confidently while waiting for complete osseointegration—the process in which the implant fuses with the surrounding bone.

These extra-long implants are strategically placed at an angle, often around 45 degrees, to achieve maximum stability by anchoring in the dense zygomatic bone.

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.

The Patient Experience

Before the Surgery

The journey to receiving zygomatic implants starts with an in-depth consultation. During this initial meeting, the dental professional evaluates your oral health, examines your jawbone through scans, and discusses your dental history and aesthetic goals. The goal is to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for zygomatic implants. Candidates are usually individuals with severe maxillary bone loss, often due to periodontal disease, long-term denture use, or after the extraction of multiple teeth.

During the Surgery

Surgery is performed with patient comfort as a top priority. Most procedures are done under IV sedation or general anesthesia, meaning you won’t feel a thing. Some surgeons may even use local anesthesia depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of the procedure. The actual surgery can take anywhere from 40 minutes to a few hours per arch, depending on your unique anatomy and the complexity of your case.

Pre-surgical planning with detailed 3D scans and imaging is essential to ensure the precise placement of zygomatic implants.

After the Surgery

Recovery is a critical part of the process. In the first week following surgery, you might experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth recovery:

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: This includes using prescribed mouthwash, taking medications as directed, and avoiding rigorous rinsing or touching the surgical site.
Dietary Adjustments: Stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days to avoid putting undue pressure on the implant sites.
Cold Compress: Applying ice packs can help reduce swelling.
Rest and Recovery: Avoid strenuous activity for at least a week and follow up with your dentist to monitor healing.

Long-term recovery continues for several months as the implants fully integrate with the bone. During this time, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining oral hygiene and ensuring the implants remain secure.

After the procedure, many patients can return to normal activities within a few days, with complete integration taking several months.

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

What Are the Risks of Zygomatic Implants?

While zygomatic implants offer many advantages, it’s important to be aware of potential complications. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, though these are generally low when performed by experienced professionals. Some potential complications include:

Sinusitis: Given the proximity to the sinus cavity, some patients may experience inflammation or sinus infections. This complication is typically manageable with medication. Sinusitis occurs in 14.2% of cases, according to the International Team for Implantology (ITI) Consensus Workshop findings published in the Journal of Implant Dentistry in March 2023.
Failed Osseointegration: In rare cases, the implant may not fully integrate with the bone, which could require additional interventions.
Peri-Implantitis: An infection around the implant site can occur if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.
Nerve Damage: Although usually temporary, nerve damage leading to numbness or tingling may occur.

The high success rates of zygomatic implants—often exceeding 95%—underscore that with careful planning and skilled surgery, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Your oral surgeon will take every precaution to minimize these risks and tailor the treatment plan to your individual needs.

Complications such as sinusitis and peri-implantitis can occur, but overall success rates for zygomatic implants are consistently high, often exceeding 95%.

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

Long-Term Success and Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of zygomatic implants is their long-term success. Studies have reported survival rates between 96% and 98% over many years, with some research indicating a 12-year survival rate of 96% or more. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, these implants can last for decades—transforming lives by restoring function and confidence.

Tips for Maintaining Your Implants

Regular Dental Visits: Keep up with your scheduled appointments to monitor the health of your implants.
Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly, and use any special cleaning devices recommended by your dentist.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and compromise bone density. It is advisable to refrain from smoking before and after the procedure.
Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports bone health and overall recovery.

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

Maintaining your implants is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. By following your dentist’s advice and keeping up with your oral hygiene routine, you can enjoy your new smile for many years.

With proper care, zygomatic implants can last for decades, restoring function and confidence in patients with severe bone loss.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is an ideal candidate for zygomatic implants?
A: Ideal candidates are typically patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw who are not suitable for traditional implants. This includes individuals with advanced periodontal disease, long-term denture use, or those who have experienced trauma or other factors leading to bone deterioration.

Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure thanks to IV sedation or general anesthesia. Post-operative pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications.

Q: How soon can I see the results?
A: Many patients receive a provisional prosthesis immediately after surgery, so you can leave the dental office with a temporary yet functional smile. Complete healing and osseointegration, however, can take several months.

Q: What is the recovery time like?
A: While most patients can resume light activities within a few days, full recovery and integration of the implant with the bone take a few months. Follow your dentist’s recovery guidelines carefully to ensure success.

Q: How long do zygomatic implants last?
A: With proper maintenance and regular dental check-ups, zygomatic implants can last for decades, offering a long-term solution for severe maxillary bone loss.

Bringing It All Together

Zygomatic dental implants are a prime example of how modern dentistry is evolving to meet the needs of patients who have long been underserved by traditional treatment methods. By utilizing the robust zygomatic bone, this innovative approach not only sidesteps the challenges associated with severe upper jaw bone loss but also provides a quicker, more reliable path to restoring your smile.

For anyone who has felt limited by their dental situation—especially those who have been told that bone grafts and lengthy healing times are the only options—zygomatic implants offer a refreshing alternative. They are a testament to how advanced planning, precise surgical techniques, and a focus on patient-centered care can come together to create outstanding outcomes.

If you or a loved one are struggling with severe bone loss in the upper jaw, it might be time to explore the possibility of zygomatic implants. A consultation with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon can help determine if you’re a candidate and outline a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

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