Zygomatic Dental Implants: When Traditional Implants Are Not Possible
Zygomatic dental implants are an advanced implant technique used when severe bone loss in the upper jaw prevents placement of traditional implants. Instead of anchoring in the maxilla, zygomatic implants engage the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), which offers dense, stable support.
This procedure is reserved for complex cases and requires advanced surgical training.
Why Traditional Implants Fail in Severe Bone Loss
In the upper jaw, long-term tooth loss often leads to:
- Vertical bone resorption
- Sinus expansion
- Insufficient bone height for implant stability
In extreme cases, even extensive bone grafting cannot reliably recreate adequate bone for traditional implants.
What Makes the Zygomatic Bone Different
The zygomatic bone:
- Is dense cortical bone
- Resorbs minimally over time
- Provides high primary stability
By anchoring implants into this structure, surgeons bypass the need for massive grafting.
Implant Design and Placement
Zygomatic implants are:
- Significantly longer than conventional implants
- Placed at an oblique angle
- Anchored partially or fully in the cheekbone
Placement requires precise 3D planning and careful avoidance of critical anatomy such as the sinus and orbit.
Indications for Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants are typically used when:
- Upper jaw bone loss is severe
- Multiple grafting procedures have failed
- The patient desires a fixed solution without prolonged graft healing
They are not a first-line treatment.
Risks and Complications
Because of their complexity, zygomatic implants carry specific risks:
- Sinus complications
- Soft tissue irritation
- Prosthetic design challenges
These risks increase dramatically when performed by inexperienced providers.
Immediate Load Potential
Many zygomatic cases allow immediate loading due to high primary stability. However:
- Prosthetic design must be rigid
- Bite forces must be tightly controlled
- Maintenance is critical
Immediate load does not eliminate long-term risk.
Why Few Clinics Offer Zygomatic Implants
This procedure requires:
- Advanced surgical training
- Hospital-level planning
- Multidisciplinary coordination
Zygomatic implants are not common because they should not be.
Advanced Implant Solutions in Sacramento
At Fusion Dental Implants, our specialists have the training and experience to handle complex cases including zygomatic implants. We provide honest assessments and recommend the most appropriate solution for your situation.
About Fusion Dental Implants: Advanced implant specialists serving Sacramento, Roseville, and patients throughout Northern California.