When several or all teeth are missing, dental implants can sometimes be used to support a fixed full arch restoration. However, conventional dental implants require sufficient bone in suitable areas of the jaw.
Some people have experienced substantial bone loss over time, particularly in the upper jaw. This can make conventional implant placement more difficult.
In selected cases, zygomatic implants may be considered as an alternative approach. They use the zygomatic bone, commonly known as the cheekbone, rather than relying solely on the bone in the upper jaw.
If you have been told that there may not be enough bone for conventional implants, this does not necessarily mean that there are no treatment options. A detailed assessment is needed to establish what may be possible.
Why can conventional implants become difficult?
After teeth are lost, the jawbone can gradually change in shape and volume. The upper jaw can be particularly affected because the bone around the teeth may reduce over time.
For a conventional dental implant to be placed, there needs to be adequate bone in an appropriate position. When there is substantial bone loss, placing implants in their usual positions may not be straightforward.
In some cases, bone grafting or other procedures may be discussed. However, there are situations where a different implant approach may be considered.
What are zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants are longer implants designed to engage with the zygomatic bone.
The zygomatic bone forms part of the cheekbone and provides a different area of support from the upper jawbone used for conventional dental implants.
Rather than attempting to place implants into areas where there may be insufficient bone, the treatment uses the available zygomatic bone as part of the support structure.
This is a technically demanding form of implant treatment and requires careful assessment and planning. If you want to weigh this against the conventional route more directly, our guide on zygomatic implants vs traditional implants covers this in more depth.
Who might be considered for zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants may be considered for some patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw who require a fixed implant-supported restoration.
They are not suitable for everyone.
Your dentist will need to assess factors such as:
- The amount and shape of available bone
- The condition of your gums and remaining teeth
- The position of the sinuses and other anatomical structures
- Your general dental health
- Your medical history
- Your ability to maintain the restoration
- The type of restoration being considered
Three-dimensional imaging is commonly important when planning treatment because the anatomy around the upper jaw and cheekbone needs to be assessed carefully.
What is involved in the assessment?
The process begins with a consultation and examination.
Your dentist will discuss your dental history, previous treatment and what you are hoping to achieve. Your remaining teeth and gums will be assessed, and imaging may be taken to evaluate your bone and surrounding anatomy.
A treatment plan can then be developed based on the findings.
It is important that you understand both the potential benefits and limitations of the proposed treatment before deciding whether to proceed.
How is zygomatic implant treatment different from conventional implants?
The main difference is where the implants obtain their support.
Conventional implants are generally placed into the jawbone at or near the position of the missing tooth roots.
Zygomatic implants are designed to engage with the zygomatic bone. Because of their length and positioning, the procedure requires careful planning around structures such as the maxillary sinus and the orbit.
This is why patient selection, imaging and surgical planning are particularly important.
Can zygomatic implants support a full arch?
Zygomatic implants can be used as part of treatment to support a fixed full arch restoration in appropriately selected cases.
A full arch restoration replaces a complete upper or lower arch of teeth, depending on the treatment plan.
For patients with significant upper jaw bone loss, zygomatic implants may form part of a treatment approach where conventional implants alone are not suitable.
The exact number and positioning of implants varies between patients.
What does the finished restoration look like?
The implants themselves sit beneath the gum and provide support for the restoration.
The visible part is the fixed dental prosthesis, which is designed to replace the missing teeth and restore the shape of the dental arch.
The appearance of the final restoration depends on factors including the position of the implants, the condition of the gums and the design and materials used for the prosthesis.
Your dentist should explain what type of restoration is being proposed before treatment begins.
What happens after treatment?
Following implant placement, you will receive instructions about caring for your mouth while it heals.
You may experience swelling, bruising or discomfort following surgery. Your dental team will provide guidance on what to expect and how to manage your recovery.
Once the restoration has been fitted, keeping it clean becomes an important part of ongoing care.
A fixed restoration does not mean that it can be treated exactly like natural teeth. Cleaning around the gums and underneath accessible areas of the prosthesis may require specific techniques and cleaning aids. For a general sense of what the whole process looks like from start to finish, see the full timeline of getting dental implants, from consultation to final crown.
Are zygomatic implants suitable for everyone?
No. Zygomatic implants are not a general replacement for conventional dental implants.
They may be considered when there is significant bone loss in the upper jaw and other treatment approaches need to be assessed. A detailed clinical and radiographic assessment is necessary. It’s also worth understanding the general dental implant risks and complications before deciding on any implant-based treatment.
Your dentist should explain why the treatment is being considered in your particular circumstances and discuss alternatives where appropriate.
What if I have been told I don’t have enough bone?
Being told that you have insufficient bone for conventional implants can be frustrating, but there may be different approaches worth discussing.
Depending on your circumstances, options could include:
- Conventional implants with or without additional procedures
- Bone grafting
- Subperiosteal implants
- Dentures
- Zygomatic implants in selected cases
The appropriate option depends on your anatomy, oral health, preferences and treatment objectives. Cost is often part of that decision too — our post on dental implants on a fixed budget covers pricing and finance options across these approaches.
Understanding your options
Zygomatic implants are one of several approaches that may be considered when significant bone loss makes conventional upper-jaw implants difficult.
The important first step is a detailed assessment rather than assuming that one treatment will be suitable for everyone.
Discuss Full Arch Implant Options in New Milton
If you have been told that conventional implants may not be suitable because of bone loss, you can discuss your circumstances with a Dentist in New Milton at The Ackerman Clinic and find out what treatment options may be appropriate for you.
Contact The Ackerman Clinic to arrange a consultation.
Frequently asked questions on Zygomatic Implants for Full Arch Restoration
Q. Are zygomatic implants the same as normal dental implants?
They are both dental implants, but they differ in their length, positioning and the bone used for support. Zygomatic implants are designed to engage with the zygomatic bone.
Q. Are zygomatic implants used for the lower jaw?
Zygomatic implants are associated primarily with treatment of the severely resorbed upper jaw because they use the cheekbone for support.
Q. Do I need a bone graft before zygomatic implants?
The purpose of zygomatic implants is to use the zygomatic bone for support where there may be insufficient conventional implant bone in the upper jaw. Whether any additional procedure is required depends on your individual anatomy and treatment plan.
Q. Can zygomatic implants support fixed teeth?
In appropriate cases, zygomatic implants can be used to support a fixed full arch restoration.
Q. How long does the treatment take?
Treatment timelines vary. The surgical procedure, healing period and restoration stages all need to be considered. Your dentist can provide a more specific timeframe after assessment.
Q. How do I clean fixed implant-supported teeth?
You will need to clean the teeth and gumline regularly, along with any areas underneath or around the restoration that can collect food and plaque. Your dental team can demonstrate the appropriate cleaning method.
Q. Are there alternatives to zygomatic implants?
Yes. Depending on your circumstances, alternatives may include bone grafting with conventional implants, other implant arrangements or removable dentures.
