Zygomatic implants are an innovative, graft-less solution for replacing fixed teeth in the upper jaw. For many patients, they could be the answer to avoiding unnecessary bone grafting procedures.
If you have extensive bone loss due to dental complications like tooth loss, bone grafting can be the only way to get a single dental implant. However, if you’re looking at a more complex situation, such as replacing all of you upper teeth, there are more solutions available. To determine this, you’ll need the advice of a qualified oral surgeon like Dr. Harley Richards at New Teeth Now.
In the realm of dental implants, zygomatic implants are a solution allowing patients who previously had been turned away for not having enough bone for implants to now be able to receive full arch dental implants. This means that patients with severe bone loss, under the guidance and supervision of a qualified oral surgeon, can receive a full set of fixed teeth in the upper jaw without the need for lengthy bone grafting procedures.
In a recent online Q&A, Dr. Richards went into detail explaining the benefits of and some common concerns about zygomatic implants. He highlighted the expertise required for their successful implementation.
Listen to the whole segment below:
Understanding Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants offer a tooth replacement alternative that does not rely on bone grafting for patients who meet the following criteria:
- The patient has insufficient bone in the upper jaw.
- Half or more of their upper teeth need to be replaced.
This is a useful option in cases where traditional implants may not be feasible due to bone loss or anatomical limitations. These implants are anchored in the zygoma, or cheekbone, providing a stable foundation for attaching teeth and restoring functionality to the jaw.
In the segment, Dr. Richards emphasized several points about zygomatic implants:
- Specialized expertise. Not just anyone should be placing zygomatic implants. There are so-called “implant professionals” who lack the experience and knowledge to place zygomatic implants, but will still attempt the procedure. The success of zygomatic implant placement hinges on the surgeons ability, which highlights the importance of seeking out experienced and qualified professionals for the best outcome.
- Graft-less solution. Many of our patients have had a history of multiple implant procedures or prosthodontist treatments. They don’t like the idea of undergoing bone grafting and waiting before they can have their teeth placed. That’s not an issue with the New Teeth Now procedure. Zygomatic implants eliminate the need for additional bone grafting procedures. This means you will go home with teeth the same day as the implant procedure.
- Immediate tooth attachment. Unlike traditional implants that may require a healing period before attaching teeth, zygomatic implants allow for the immediate loading of a prosthetic on the same day implants are placed. That means, you get to go home with teeth on the same day as the New Teeth Now procedure.
- Board certification: Patients are encouraged to seek treatment from board-certified oral surgeons who possess the necessary training and expertise in maxillofacial surgery. Board certification serves as a reliable indicator of a surgeon’s competence and proficiency in performing complex procedures like zygomatic implant placement.
Zygomatic implants are a groundbreaking advancement in implant dentistry, offering patients with inadequate bone in the upper jaw a solution that doesn’t require sinus lifts and additional bone grafting procedures.
By leveraging the zygoma, or cheekbone, these implants provide a stable foundation for restoring missing teeth and enhancing oral function. The success of zygomatic implant surgery relies heavily on the skill and experience of the oral surgeon. Patients considering zygomatic implants should carefully research their options and seek treatment from qualified professionals to ensure a great outcome and successful long-term oral health.
If you’d like to learn more about zygomatic implants, give us a call or reach out on our contact page.
