Zygomatic Implants in Bournemouth
Losing teeth can have a big impact on your day-to-day life. It might change how you eat, talk, and feel about your smile. While standard dental implants are a common way to replace missing teeth, some people don’t have enough jawbone to hold them in place. In these cases, zygomatic implants can be a useful alternative.
At The Ackerman Clinic, patients looking into zygomatic implants in Bournemouth can find out about full-arch tooth replacement options, even when the upper jawbone is too thin for regular implants.
What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants are longer than usual dental implants. They are designed to fix into the zygoma, or cheekbone, instead of the upper jawbone. The cheekbone is naturally very thick and solid, which provides a strong base for the implant.
This type of implant is mostly used for patients who have lost a lot of bone in their upper jaw. In many instances, it allows the dentist to fit new teeth without the need for bone grafting.
These implants are often used when a patient needs a full set of top teeth replaced, helping to hold fixed teeth that look and work like the real thing.
Why Bone Loss Stops Traditional Implants
The jawbone needs the pressure from natural tooth roots to stay strong. When teeth are gone, the bone in that spot can start to waste away. This is called bone resorption.
Bone loss in the upper jaw can happen because of:
- Missing teeth for a long time
- Gum disease
- An injury to the mouth
- Wearing dentures for many years
- Natural body shape
Standard implants need enough bone in the jaw to stay steady. If there isn’t enough, you might need a bone graft. Zygomatic implants offer a different path by using the cheekbone instead.
When Zygomatic Implants Might Be the Right Choice
Zygomatic implants are usually for more difficult cases where the upper jaw has shrunk. Your dentist will check if this is the right move for you.
You might talk about these implants if you have:
- Severe bone loss in the top jaw
- Trouble getting standard implants to stay in
- Had implants fail in the past
- A wish to avoid bone grafting surgery
- Worn dentures for a long time and lost bone structure
A full check-up is the only way to know if these implants will work for your mouth.
Zygomatic vs Traditional Dental Implants
Both types aim to replace teeth, but they anchor in different spots.
Traditional Implants:
- Put into the upper or lower jawbone
- Used when there is plenty of bone
- May need a bone graft first if the bone is thin
Zygomatic Implants:
- Anchored into the cheekbone
- Built for cases with upper jaw bone loss
- Used for a full set of top teeth
Your dentist will pick the best one for your bone shape and health.
The Treatment Process
Getting zygomatic implants takes a few steps, all planned to keep you comfortable.
- Initial Consultation: We start with a chat at The Ackerman Clinic to look at your teeth and goals. We use a 3D cone beam CT scan to see your jaw and cheekbones clearly.
- Treatment Planning: We make a plan just for you, showing how many implants you need and how the new teeth will look.
- Implant Placement: The implants are put into the cheekbone through the upper jaw. We use local anaesthetic and can offer sedation to help you relax.
- Fitting the Teeth: After the implants are in, we attach your new teeth. These might be temporary at first, followed by a final, permanent set once everything has healed.
Who Can Get Zygomatic Implants?
We decide if you are a candidate after a full clinical check. We look at:
- How much bone is left in your top jaw
- Your general mouth health
- The health of your gums
- Your medical history
- If you smoke or have other lifestyle habits
Not everyone needs zygomatic implants. For many, regular ones are still fine. A visit to the clinic will help clear this up.
Caring for Your Implants
Good cleaning is the key to making implants last. You should:
- Brush twice a day with a soft brush
- Use floss or interdental brushes around the implants
- See your dentist and hygienist for regular cleaning
- Follow all the advice the dental team gives you
Keeping your gums healthy is the best way to support your new teeth.
Better Quality of Life
Missing teeth or loose dentures can make simple things like eating out or talking to friends feel hard. Zygomatic implants provide the stability that some people just can’t get with other methods.
Being able to chew properly again is also great for your nutrition and overall health. It often gives people back the confidence they lost when their teeth were missing.
Why Bournemouth Patients Visit The Ackerman Clinic?
Patients come to us because we use modern tools and take the time to plan every detail. We use 3D scanning to see exactly where the implants should go before we even start.
We believe in talking clearly so you know exactly what is happening with your care. You can expect:
- Thorough check-ups
- Modern 3D imaging
- Honest talk about the steps involved
- A friendly, calm environment
Book Your Consultation
If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for implants, or you want to avoid bone grafts, come and talk to us. During your visit, we will:
- Look at your teeth and gums
- Check your 3D scans
- Talk about what you want to achieve
- Explain the costs and timings
This is your chance to ask questions and see if zygomatic implants are the right fit for you.
Contact The Ackerman Clinic today to book an appointment. Let’s see how we can help you get your smile and your confidence back.
