Zygomatic implants use the cheekbone structure to support the necessary implants. Under the expertise of Dr. Atcha, it can remove the need for bone grafting, which can take an additional six months to a full year to complete with traditional implant treatment.
What are zygomatic implants?
Conventional dental implants are small titanium posts that Dr. Atcha inserts into your jaw during surgery. They replace your natural tooth roots and fuse to your jawbone during the healing process to provide a stable base for your new prosthetic teeth. Unfortunately, if you don’t have enough tooth-supporting bone in your jaw, Dr. Atcha has to perform a bone graft before your procedure.
Zygomatic implants, on the other hand, bond partially to your jawbone and zygomatic bone—your cheekbone, which is denser and more secure that your other facial bones—so you won’t need a bone graft or sinus lift. Because they don’t drill directly into your jawbone, zygomatic implants are much longer than their conventional counterparts.
What are the benefits of zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants are an excellent alternative if a bone graft isn’t enough to provide a stable foundation for your teeth. Some of the most popular zygomatic implant benefits are:
Stability
Zygomatic implants anchor deep into the upper jaw, directly next to the zygoma bone, a dense and stable bone in your skull. Since the zygomatic bone is far denser than the jawbone, zygomatic implants are easily able to fuse with the surrounding bone, making them especially strong. In fact, one zygomatic implant equates to approximately 3-4 traditional implants.
No bone graft
When one or more teeth is missing from the jawbone, this causes a process known as bone resorption whereby the body takes bone from the jaws and distributes it to other parts of the body. Unfortunately, this ultimately causes the jawbone to deteriorate over time, meaning that a bone graft will be required to have dental implants placed. Zygomatic implants offer an alternative for severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
The bone graft healing process can take up to six months, and you can’t prepare for dental implant surgery until you fully heal. For those who want to restore their smile as quickly as possible, this can feel like a lifetime. Fortunately, you don’t need a bone graft for zygomatic implants because bone resorption does not occur in the zygomatic bones. This means that the zygomatic bones retain their bone mass no matter how many teeth have been lost.
Time
Unlike conventional dental implants, which require a multi-step process that takes several months, Dr. Atcha can fit you for your prosthetic teeth right after your zygomatic implant surgery. This means you get the chance to enjoy your new teeth sooner.
Appearance
Traditional dental implants can also leave you without your new prosthetic teeth for months between your surgery and teeth placement. Zygomatic implants don’t require the same lengthy healing process and your artificial teeth can be immediately placed following the placement of zygomatic implants. This ultimately means that you will not need to go without teeth.
Am I a candidate for zygomatic implants?
You may be a candidate for zygomatic implants if you are looking to have dental implants placed in the upper jaw. Ideal candidates for zygomatic implants are individuals with low jawbone mass who will need a sinus lift before having dental implants placed. By choosing zygomatic implants, people with low jawbone mass can eliminate the need for additional procedures like sinus lifts and bone grafts. Additionally, you may also be a candidate for zygomatic implants if you would rather have implants placed in your zygomatic bone instead of your jawbone. To determine if zygomatic implants are the best option for your smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Atcha of New Teeth Chicago Dental Implants today.
How are zygomatic implants placed?
The zygomatic implant process is similar to conventional implants and all dental implant procedures are performed using dental sedation and anesthetics for your comfort. Dr. Atcha takes comprehensive digital X-rays and scans of your mouth to map out the areas where your implants will be placed.
During your surgery, Dr. Atcha will first make a small incision in your gums to reach the jawbone. Then he will prepare the jawbone and zygomatic bone by using a dental drill to make room for the implant. The next step is to place the implants. Dr. Atcha inserts your extra-long implant into the jawbone near the upper bicuspids. The implant is angled so that it either goes next to or through your sinuses, where it will than be anchored to the zygomatic bone.
Since one zygomatic implant equals about 3-4 traditional implants, 1-2 zygomatic implants are generally placed, along with 2-4 traditional implants. In some cases, more than 2 zygomatic implants may be needed. After all the implants have been placed, abutments will be attached and the gum tissue will be sutured around the abutments. Finally, your temporary teeth will be placed onto the implants.
After your surgery, the healing process takes approximately four months. When you return to the office, Dr. Atcha takes digital impressions of your mouth to create your permanent prosthetic teeth. Finally, he fits you for your prosthetics and ensures they’re stable and feel as comfortable as your natural teeth.
Are zygomatic implants safe?
Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of dental implant used in cases where traditional dental implants cannot be placed due to inadequate bone in the upper jaw. Zygomatic implants are longer than regular implants and are anchored in the zygomatic bone, which is located in the cheek area. While zygomatic implants are a viable solution for certain individuals, they do carry some risks and considerations.
When performed by experienced oral surgeons or implant specialists, zygomatic implants are generally considered safe. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. Some of the possible risks associated with zygomatic implants include:
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the implant site. Proper sterilization protocols and post-operative care can help minimize this risk.
- Nerve damage: The proximity of zygomatic implants to nerves in the face can pose a risk of nerve injury during the placement of the implants. Careful planning and surgical expertise are necessary to minimize the likelihood of nerve damage.
- Sinus problems: Zygomatic implants extend into the maxillary sinus, which is an air-filled cavity in the upper jaw. There is a potential risk of sinus complications such as sinusitis or sinus perforation during the implant placement or if the implant protrudes into the sinus space.
- Failure or complications: Zygomatic implants, like any dental implant, can experience failure or complications such as implant loosening, implant fracture, or implant-related infections. Regular follow-up visits and proper oral hygiene are essential to minimize these risks.
It is important to note that zygomatic implants are typically considered a more complex procedure than traditional dental implants. They are typically reserved for individuals with severe bone loss in the upper jaw who may not be suitable candidates for other dental implant techniques. A comprehensive evaluation by an experienced oral surgeon or implant specialist is necessary to determine if zygomatic implants are the right option for an individual’s specific case.
It’s recommended to consult with a qualified implant specialist, such as Dr. Atcha, who can thoroughly assess your individual situation, discuss the potential risks and benefits, and provide personalized advice regarding the safety and suitability of zygomatic implants for your dental needs.
Zygomatic implants function just like conventional dental implants. To find out if they’re the right tooth replacement option for you, call New Teeth Chicago Dental or schedule a consultation with Dr. Atcha online.