Zygomatic implants are ideal for patients seeking dental implants but suffer from severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Unlike traditional root form dental implants, which require bone grafting, zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone to support the upper jaw’s teeth, bridges, and dentures.
If you were told that dental implants are necessary but lack sufficient bone volume in your upper jaw, you may feel like there are no other options available. However, there is a solution called reconstructive implants that can be used to replace upper teeth when the upper jaw bone is not suitable for regular implants.
What should you know about bone loss?
Bone atrophy or resorption is the natural process of tissue degeneration, where body tissues (such as bone) waste away. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable after tooth extraction, and it can be further exacerbated by dentures. Patients who have been using dentures for extended periods and have severe jaw atrophy may not have sufficient bone quality or volume required for dental implants. The loss of volume in the upper jawbone (maxilla) can occur due to a combination of factors such as bone resorption and pneumatization of the maxillary sinus.
When teeth are missing, they no longer transmit stress to the jawbone, leading to bone mass reduction. Additionally, the air volume of the maxillary sinus increases with age, leading to a decrease in bone volume. In cases where the vertical height of the upper jaw’s jaw bone is less than 10mm, traditional ‘root form’ implants may require bone grafting procedures (such as alveolar augmentation or sinus lift grafting) to enhance implant stability and increase their lifespan.
While bone grafting procedures have a high success rate, they can prolong the treatment time, requiring additional stages for bone graft placement, healing, maturation, and implant placement. During this healing process, patients may need to use a denture for 3-4 months. In certain cases, block-type bone grafts can cause more pain and swelling or even rejection if they don’t heal properly.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) or severe infections can lead to the deterioration of the jawbone, even if teeth are present. Conventional dental implant treatment may not be appropriate for patients with these conditions. In such cases, zygomatic implants can provide an optimal solution. But, what are zygomatic implants and why are they needed?
What are zygomatic implants?
Zygoma implants are designed to be anchored into the dense zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone, which can provide a more stable foundation for dental implants compared to the upper jaw. By spreading the stress of the implants across a wider area, these implants can successfully support dental bridges immediately after surgery, eliminating the need for a temporary denture or a period of time without teeth.
First introduced in the late 1980s, zygomatic implants have a proven track record of success. They have been used to rehabilitate patients who have insufficient bone in the posterior upper jaw due to a variety of factors, including age-related bone loss, early tooth loss or denture wear, tumor resection, trauma, or severe bone atrophy.
Zygomatic implants offer an alternative to bone grafts in the upper jaw by providing dental implants that traverse the upper jaw’s poor area to anchor into the cheekbones underneath the sinuses. Dental implants can be placed at the back of the mouth to complement existing implants at the front.
The number of implants required varies from two to four depending on the patient’s needs, and they can support partial or full dental bridges. This procedure is safe and reliable when performed by experienced surgeons, and is usually done under anesthesia as a day surgery. Immediate teeth can be attached to the implants on the same day as the surgery, allowing for quick results.
Who can benefit from zygomatic implants?
Patients with significant bone loss in their upper jaw are often told that they are not suitable candidates for dental implants. However, zygomatic implants have emerged as a reliable and effective solution for such patients. These implants are specially designed to support immediate fixed dental bridges, providing a functional and aesthetic replacement for missing teeth.
In cases where the bone loss is more severe, a greater number of zygomatic implants may be required. In some cases, a complete set of upper teeth may require the use of quad zygoma or two zygomatic implants on each side of the upper jaw for support. Zygomatic implants have also been used in dental rehabilitation for patients with cleft palates.
Zygomatic Implants vs. Normal Dental Implants
A unique type of dental implant known as a zygoma implant differs from traditional root form implants in length and placement. Instead of being anchored in the alveolar bone in the mouth, a zygoma implant is inserted into the cheekbone, or zygomatic bone, through the mouth. The cheekbone provides a sturdy foundation for immediate placement of replacement teeth or dental bridges, as it is composed of dense, solid bone. This immediate stability is especially beneficial for those seeking same-day teeth replacement.
Why are these implants placed on the back of the jaw?
The alveolar bone located at the posterior part of the upper jaw tends to undergo resorption or atrophy at a higher rate than other regions of the tooth-supporting bone. Due to this, the use of zygoma implants eliminates the necessity for extensive bone grafting that may be necessary to insert conventional dental implants (compared to bone grafting techniques, zygomatic implant surgery is less invasive, has a shorter recovery period, and does not require the use of dentures or any period of being without teeth, resulting in significantly less discomfort for the patient).
What does the preparation for zygomatic implants include?
Digital technology is now used in the planning of zygomatic implants, utilizing CT scans and virtual planning to create personalized surgical guides. This new method saves time during surgery and enables the creation of a precise dental bridge through prosthetically-driven treatment planning. Previously, the success rate of this treatment was uncertain, and complications were difficult to anticipate during the procedure. However, thanks to the use of state-of-the-art equipment, Dr. Roland Zhuka can perform this procedure with the highest level of accuracy and safety. It is crucial to understand that this particular implant procedure is not as prevalent as the conventional dental implant methods and as such, it requires the services of a specialist surgeon who possesses extensive knowledge and proficiency in this technique.
What are some of the advantages of zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants have revolutionized the way in which patients can improve their oral function and smile aesthetics. Not only do they provide patients with the ability to eat and speak more comfortably, but they also offer a host of other benefits. The benefits of this procedure include the removal of discomfort caused by denture sore spots, extended tooth support, and quicker recovery periods when compared to conventional bone grafting methods.
Perhaps most importantly, zygomatic implants can restore a patient’s self-esteem and confidence by giving them a natural-looking smile that they can be proud of. Patients are able to enjoy social outings and interactions without fear of embarrassment, and they have the freedom to eat and laugh without worrying about their teeth coming out.
Here are some other advantages of opting for zygomatic implants:
- The need for bone grafting is greatly reduced, making the procedure suitable for most patients.
- Patients with severe bone loss who were previously deemed ineligible for conventional implant treatment can now benefit from this technique.
- Dental bridges can be fixed to the implants immediately after the surgery, which means there is no need to use a temporary denture.
- Zygomatic implants can be used to support teeth in patients with cleft lip and palate who cannot undergo traditional treatments.
- One zygomatic implant can support multiple teeth, whereas a regular dental implant can only support one or two teeth.
- A full upper dental bridge can be supported by just four zygomatic implants.
- The placement of zygomatic implants can be predicted accurately when done simultaneously with teeth removal.
- Zygomatic implants can help recover the consequences of a previous failed dental implant treatment or of a periodontal breakdown.
What is the success rate for zygomatic implant surgery?
The advancements in dental implant technology over the past two decades have made zygomatic implant treatments highly effective. However, the success of these treatments is contingent upon the overall health of the patient and their ability to maintain proper upkeep. Consistent oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing twice daily, are necessary to preserve the functionality of the implant and ensure the cleanliness of both the implant and surrounding teeth. In addition to personal care, routine visits with a dental hygienist are also advised to reach inaccessible areas. Following a dentist’s instructions and recommendations can lead to a zygomatic implant lasting a lifetime.
Can I combine zygomatic implants with traditional ones?
The combination of zygomatic implants and traditional root form dental implants can be utilized to achieve a positive result for patients who may have an adequate amount of bone for implant placement in the front of their mouth, but not in the back. In such cases, a treatment plan that includes both types of implants can be considered.
How much do zygomatic implants in Albania cost?
The cost of zygomatic implants is a bit more expensive than traditional root form implants. However, the total cost of treatment remains similar since fewer zygomatic implants (2-4) are required as opposed to regular dental implants (4-6). Following your consultation with Dr. Roland Zhuka, you will receive a comprehensive quote for the complete treatment. The specialist handles the complete treatment process, which involves placing the implant and producing the final implant retained bridges.