Zygomatic implants

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Zygomatic implants – fixed teeth even with severe bone loss in the upper jaw

Zygomatic implants, also known as zygoma implants, are a specialist type of dental implant used in patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. They are longer than standard implants and, instead of relying only on the jawbone, they are anchored in the zygomatic bone — the strong cheekbone.

This makes them a solution for people who have previously been told that they “do not have enough bone” for conventional implants, or that extensive bone reconstruction procedures would be necessary, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift.

Zygomatic implants are used primarily in the treatment of complete tooth loss or significant missing teeth in the upper arch. They provide stable support for a fixed prosthetic restoration, most often an implant-supported bridge.

Piotr Jaszcz

Dentist - dental surgeon

Who Are Zygomatic Implants For?

Zygomatic implants are considered for patients in whom conventional implants cannot be safely or predictably placed due to insufficient bone volume in the jaw.

The most common indications include:

  • severe bone loss in the upper jaw,
  • long-term edentulism and use of a removable denture,
  • inability to place conventional implants,
  • previous implant treatment failures,
  • the need to avoid extensive bone regeneration procedures,
  • the desire for a fixed restoration instead of a removable denture.

This solution may be particularly important for patients who have struggled for years with an unstable denture, difficulty chewing, discomfort when speaking, or a loss of confidence related to missing teeth.

What Does the Zygomatic Implant Procedure Involve?

The procedure involves placing specially designed, longer implants in a way that achieves stable anchorage in the cheekbone. This bone is typically more resistant to resorption than the alveolar bone of the jaw, making it a solid foundation for future prosthetic work.

Treatment is always preceded by thorough diagnostics. The clinician assesses the condition of the bone, maxillary sinuses, bite, and the patient’s general health. A key element of planning is CBCT computed tomography, which allows for a precise evaluation of the anatomical conditions and planning of implant positions.

Depending on the clinical situation, different implant configurations are used. In some patients, zygomatic implants are combined with conventional implants in the anterior section of the jaw. In more advanced cases, multiple zygomatic implants may be used to restore the entire upper dental arch.

Can You Have Fixed Teeth Immediately After the Procedure?

In many cases, zygomatic implants allow for immediate loading — meaning a temporary bridge can be fitted shortly after the procedure, sometimes on the same day or within 24 hours.

This means the patient does not have to wait many months before using a fixed restoration. It is important to note, however, that the decision regarding immediate restoration depends on anatomical conditions, implant stability, the treatment plan, and the clinician’s assessment.

The temporary bridge serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, but requires adherence to dietary, hygiene, and follow-up guidelines. After the healing period and osseointegration, the definitive prosthetic restoration is fabricated.

Zygomatic Implants vs. Bone Grafting

In patients with significant bone loss, conventional implant treatment often requires prior bone reconstruction. This may involve bone grafting, augmentation, or sinus floor elevation. Such treatment can be effective, but is often lengthy, staged, and requires multiple procedures.

Zygomatic implants can in many cases shorten the treatment path, as they utilise stable anchorage in the cheekbone. This makes it possible to avoid some extensive regenerative procedures and move more quickly towards restoring chewing function and smile aesthetics.

This does not mean, however, that zygomatic implants are the right solution for everyone. It is an advanced method requiring considerable experience from the surgical team, thorough diagnostics, and an individual treatment plan.

What Are the Key Benefits for the Patient?

The greatest benefit of zygomatic implants is the ability to treat patients who previously did not qualify for standard implants due to excessive bone loss in the jaw.

For the patient, this may mean:

  • the chance to have fixed teeth despite significant bone loss,
  • greater stability compared to a removable denture,
  • improved comfort when eating and speaking,
  • the possibility of reducing or avoiding extensive bone reconstruction,
  • a shorter overall treatment process,
  • improved smile aesthetics and facial appearance,
  • greater confidence in everyday situations.

A well-planned restoration on zygomatic implants can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life — particularly when a previous denture was unstable, caused irritation, or limited the freedom to eat comfortably.

Would you like to know whether zygomatic implants are possible in your case? Book a consultation.

Is the Zygomatic Implant Procedure Safe?

Zygomatic implants have been used for many years in the treatment of patients with challenging bone conditions in the jaw. However, it is a specialist procedure, more advanced than standard implant placement. For this reason, the clinician’s experience, 3D diagnostics, proper planning, and regular post-treatment check-ups are of key importance.

As with any surgical procedure, complications are possible — including swelling, pain, infection, sinus-related issues, tissue inflammation, or difficulties with osseointegration. The patient should be informed of all risks during the consultation, following an assessment of their individual health situation.

Zygomatic Implants and Everyday Comfort

For many patients, the greatest change after treatment is not simply a new smile, but the recovery of freedom. A stable implant-supported restoration can make eating, speaking, laughing, and going about daily life easier — without the worry that a denture might shift.

This is especially significant for those who have spent years avoiding harder foods, social situations, or smiling openly. Zygomatic implants can help restore not only chewing function, but also self-confidence.

Would you like to regain your everyday comfort? Book a consultation and find out whether zygomatic implants are the right solution for you.

Are Zygomatic Implants Right for Me?

The best way to find out whether zygomatic implants are the right solution is an implant consultation combined with 3D diagnostics. Only on this basis can it be assessed whether treatment with zygomatic implants is possible, or whether a different method of restoration would be more appropriate.

If you have been told you have insufficient bone for conventional implants, are wearing an uncomfortable denture, or are looking for a permanent solution in the presence of significant bone loss in the jaw — zygomatic implants may be one of the options worth discussing with a specialist.

What Does the Treatment Process Look Like Step by Step?

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1. Implant Consultation

– Claude responded: The first step is a consultation with the clinician, an assessment of the patient's expectations, and a review of previous treatment.The first step is a consultation with the clinician, an assessment of the patient's expectations, and a review of previous treatment. The clinician examines the condition of the oral cavity, mucosa, existing dentures, bite, and overall suitability for implant treatment.

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2. 3D Diagnostics

– Claude responded: A CBCT computed tomography scan is then performed.A CBCT computed tomography scan is then performed. The scan allows for a precise assessment of bone volume, the course of the maxillary sinuses, and the anatomical conditions required for safe procedure planning.

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3. Individual Treatment Plan

– Based on the diagnostics, the clinician prepares a treatment plan. This specifies the number of implants, their positions, the type of prosthetic restoration, and the possibility of fitting a temporary bridge shortly after the procedure.

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4. Surgical Procedure

– During the procedure, implants are placed in the planned positions. The procedure can be performed under local anaesthesia, and in selected cases also with sedation support or another form of anaesthesia — depending on the patient's needs and the decision of the medical team.

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5. Temporary Prosthetic Restoration

– Where conditions allow, the patient receives a temporary bridge that restores aesthetics and basic chewing function. During this period, it is essential to follow the clinician's recommendations regarding hygiene, diet, and check-up appointments.

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6. Definitive Implant-Supported Bridge

– After the healing period, the definitive prosthetic restoration is fabricated. It is designed to ensure good aesthetics, stability, comfort, and proper distribution of forces during chewing.

Book a Consultation

Permanent teeth may be possible even when conventional implants are not an option. Book a consultation to find out whether zygomatic implants are the right solution for you.
During the visit, we will assess your bone conditions, discuss possible treatment methods, and prepare an individual smile restoration plan.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Zygomatic Implants

Are zygomatic implants the same as cheekbone implants?

Yes. Both names refer to the same type of implant. “Zygomatic” comes from the Latin name for the zygomatic bone — the cheekbone — in which the implant is anchored.

How do they differ from regular implants?

Standard implants are typically placed in the jawbone. Zygomatic implants are longer and anchored in the cheekbone, which is why they can be used in patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw.

Can bone grafting be avoided?

In many cases, zygomatic implants allow extensive bone reconstruction to be reduced or avoided altogether. The decision depends on the individual’s anatomical conditions and treatment plan.

Can you have teeth immediately after the procedure?

A temporary bridge can often be fitted shortly after the procedure — sometimes on the same day or within 24 hours. However, this is not the case for every patient; the possibility is determined by the clinician after assessing implant stability and clinical conditions.

Are zygomatic implants only for the upper jaw?

Yes. Zygomatic implants are used to treat tooth loss in the upper jaw, as they are anchored in the cheekbone.

Is the procedure painful?

The procedure is carried out under anaesthesia, so the patient should not feel pain during the treatment. After the procedure, swelling, tenderness, or discomfort may occur — these are a natural response following surgical treatment.

How long does treatment take?

Treatment time depends on the patient’s situation, the scope of the procedure, and the type of prosthetic restoration. For many patients, temporary teeth can be fitted quickly, while the final prosthetic work is completed after a healing and tissue stabilisation period.

Can anyone have zygomatic implants?

No. This is a solution for selected patients with specific indications. A consultation, 3D diagnostics, and a general health assessment are required before treatment.

How much do zygomatic implants cost?

The cost of treatment is determined individually following a consultation and 3D diagnostics — it depends on the number of implants, the scope of the prosthetic restoration, and any additional procedures required. An accurate quote is only possible after assessing the bone conditions and preparing an individual treatment plan.

Where can zygomatic implants be performed in Wrocław?

Zygomatic implants are performed at Q-Clinic in Wrocław. This is a specialist procedure requiring an experienced team and 3D diagnostics — we invite you to a consultation, during which we will assess whether this is the right solution for you.

Regain a Full Smile — Even Without Bone

Claude responded: Zygomatic implants are a solution for patients for whom conventional implants were never an option.Zygomatic implants are a solution for patients for whom conventional implants were never an option. One team, one plan, one goal — your comfort.

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klinika chirurgi stomatologicznej klinika chirurgi stomatologicznej