Zygomatic implants are one of the most innovative alternatives to traditional implants, designed to replace missing teeth and aid in the rehabilitation of the atrophic posterior maxilla. This type of dental implant surgery eliminates the need for bone grafting or sinus lift procedures, thus contributing to a shorter and more comfortable treatment. This technique allows even patients with a totally resorbed maxilla to enjoy the benefits of permanent teeth replacement. If you have been deemed ineligible for traditional dental implants but wish to restore your missing teeth, zygomatic implants may be the perfect solution for you. This blog aims to answer all your questions on the matter, as well as provide you with detailed information on Dr. Roland Zhuka’s practices for realizing zygomatic implants in Albania.
What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants are a special type of implants designed to provide support for a full arch of teeth in cases where there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw. Patients who cannot get traditional implants can greatly benefit from this procedure. The surgery involved anchoring the implants into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone), which is dense and provides a secure foundation for the crowns. Due to the positioning of the implants, zygomatic implants are usually longer than traditional implants. They range from 35mm to 55mm in length. The appropriate length for each patient is determined according to the patient’s facial structure. Zygomatic implants are anchored at a 45 degree angle. Their precise positioning maximizes stability and support, while successfully eliminating the need for additional procedures such as bone grafting.
What Causes Bone Loss In The Upper Jaw?
There are many factors which contribute to bone loss in the upper jaw. However, the three primary reasons include the following:
- Untreated periodontal disease: If periodontal disease is left untreated, it can cause major problems and complications, including bone deterioration around the teeth, instability and eventually even tooth loss.
- Physical trauma: Accidents and facial injuries are one of the common reasons why patients experience bone loss over time.
- Missing teeth: Tooth loss can cause the deterioration of bone mass over time. If missing teeth are not replaced promptly, the jawbone will begin to lose density due to the lack of stimulation provided by the teeth.
What Are The Benefits Of Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants offer a wide range of benefits, making them the preferred choice among patients who suffer from insufficient bone loss in the jaw. First of all, zygomatic implants guarantee a very strong foundation for dental restorations, including dental bridges or dentures. This ensures that patients regain their ability to speak and consume all kinds of food as they would with their natural teeth.
Moreover, zygomatic implants provide patients with severe bone loss in the maxilla region with a highly functional alternative for tooth replacement. Even if you are not a suitable candidate for traditional dental implants or even all-on-4 implants, you can still get implants without having to undergo bone grafting.
In addition, the recovery time after zygomatic implant surgery is typically shorter compared to traditional implant surgery. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few days. This makes zygomatic implants a highly flexible treatment that can be adjusted for people with all types of busy schedules. Whether you are going on a weekend trip, taking a vacation or just a few days off work, you can definitely fit in a quick zygomatic implant surgery. Dr. Roland Zhuka is specialized in advanced dental implantology, with a focus on zygomatic, pterygoid and nasal implants. He has decades of experience performing these types of surgeries on patients with a variety of different case complexity levels. Dr. Zhuka will be able to perform the intervention in no time, providing you with enough time to rest, recover and enjoy the benefits of your new teeth.
Most importantly, zygomatic implants are a long-lasting solution for tooth loss. People oftentimes find dentures to be extremely uncomfortable. They slip away and limit your ability to consume different kinds of food as you would with your natural teeth. Zygomatic implants offer a solution that perfectly mimics both the functional and aesthetical aspects of your natural teeth. With these implants you will be able to smile, laugh and eat without a worry in the world. Dr. Zhuka works in close collaboration with his dental lab staff, who utilize the latest modern equipment to prepare natural looking dental implant crowns for any patient. We will make sure to create a set of teeth that matches your facial autonomy, achieving a completely natural-looking, attractive and balanced appearance.
What Happens During A Zygomatic Implant Surgery?
Zygomatic implants surgery involves similar but specific steps compared to traditional implantology. The placement of zygomatic implants differs both in the choice of anchoring bone as well as in the precise use of 45 degree angles. Dr. Roland Zhuka has decades of experience in advanced implantology. Here is a quick rundown of the zygomatic implant procedures available at our clinic:
Initial Consultation
Before proceeding with your zygomatic implant surgery, you must first undergo all necessary examinations to determine whether these implants are right for you. Dr. Zhuka will assess your x-rays, lab results as well as your medical history in order to fully prepare for your intervention. Your oral health will be carefully evaluated to identify any underlying issues which could pose any risk of complications. All necessary measures are taken to guarantee a safe and successful procedure for each patient. To take a look of how the final result of the dental implants will be, we realize 3D scans and modern imagery representations of the outcome. In this way the patient can get a glimpse of the final surgery results before it even happens.
Day Of The Surgery
Once all preparations have been made, Dr. Zhuka will prepare the chosen form of dental sedation. Whether the patient has chosen local anesthesia or IV sedation, both methods are ideal for numbing the site of the surgery so that the experience will be completely pain-free. Once the anesthetics have been administered, Dr. Zhuka will make small and precise incisions in the gum tissue to access the zygomatic bone. Zygomatic implants will then be placed directly onto the bone at exact 45 degree angles. The positioning is achieved with absolute accuracy, thanks to Dr. Zhuka’s experience and expertise combined with the use of guiding surgical equipment available at his clinic.
Once the implants have been secured in place, Dr. Zhuka will attach abutments on top of the implants. These abutments work as a connecting piece between the implant and the prosthetic teeth. Incisions are carefully stitched and the area is cleaned of any blood and residue. A temporary prosthetic is used, allowing the patient to leave the clinic with no missing teeth! At a later stage, the final dental crowns are attached to the abutments. Bite impressions are made to ensure a perfect fit and optimal comfort.
Healing And Recovery
After the surgery is complete, the patient will be redirected to a room where they can rest and recover. Comprehensive post-op instructions will be provided and pain-killers will be prescribed for use according to the patient’s needs. The recovery phase for zygomatic implants is shorter compared to traditional implants. Slight discomfort and swelling are completely normal, however, all symptoms will subside in a few days.
Things To Consider Before Getting Zygomatic Implants
Even though zygomatic implants are an amazing solution for patients with severe bone loss in the maxilla, there are a few things you should know before proceeding with this treatment.
Zygomatic Implant Surgery Is More Complex
Compared to traditional implants, zygomatic implant surgery is considered a more challenging intervention. That’s because the surgery requires a precise technique to ensure its success. Not all dentists are qualified to perform zygomatic implant surgery. Dr. Roland Zhuka has completed several training, qualifications and seminars in prestigious educational institutions abroad, including Italy, US, Lisbon, and Berlin. With +20 years of experience and numerous certifications on his resume, Dr. Zhuka has established his reputation as a leader in the field of advanced implantology. If you are going to undergo zygomatic implant surgery, make sure to choose a qualified and experienced professional such as Dr. Zhuka.
Zygomatic Implants May Be More Expensive
The cost of zygomatic implant surgery can add up, considering the complexity of the procedure. Getting one single traditional implant is a much simpler intervention, therefore, expenses related to it are considerably cheaper. However, if you need to replace several missing teeth and you suffer from severe bone loss in the jaw, zygomatic implants are definitely a more economic and wiser alternative.
A Recovery Period Is Still Needed
Immediate loading has made it possible for patients to leave the clinic with a full set of teeth. Therefore, patients can enjoy improved oral functionality and aesthetics right away! That’s one of the reasons why the recovery for zygomatic implants is shorter compared to traditional implants. Nevertheless, a dedicated recovery stage is still necessary. Right after the day of the surgery, some level of pain, discomfort and swelling is to be expected. If you don’t take care of yourself and your dental health during the recovery days, you won’t allow the implants to properly heal. Therefore, certain foods and activities should still be avoided right after the procedure to ensure minimal risks of complications and a steady recovery.
FAQs
Why Would Patients Need Zygomatic Implants?
Patients who don’t have enough bone density in the upper jaw to support traditional implants may need to consider alternative dental implants such as zygomatic implants. Therefore, if you can’t get normal posterior dental implants for “all-on” procedures, and you don’t wish to undergo extensive bone grafting procedures, zygomatic implants may be the right choice for you.
What Are Zygomatic Implants Made Of?
Zygomatic implants are made of the same materials as normal dental implants. Pure commercial titanium is often the preferred choice, due its unmatched stability, durability and osseointegration qualities.
Am I A Suitable Candidate For Zygomatic Implants?
If you have been deemed ineligible for traditional implants due to bone density loss, you may be the perfect candidate for zygomatic implants. However, only a professional dentist will be able to properly identify the optimal procedure for your specific case. If you want to know whether you are a suitable candidate for zygomatic implant surgery, book an online consultation with Dr. Zhuka for a free evaluation.
How Long Do Zygomatic Implants Last?
Zygomatic implants are a long-lasting solution for tooth loss. Just like regular implants, zygomatic implants provide optimal functionality and durability and they last for many decades, provided you take proper care of your dental health.
Does Zygomatic Implant Surgery Hurt?
Some patients are worried about the pain associated with dental surgeries, however, zygomatic implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation. Consequently, the patient doesn’t experience any kind of pain during the surgery. Minimal discomfort is to be expected during the first few hours after the intervention, however, everything is easily managed with the help of pain-killers prescribed by your dentist.
What Is The Success Rate Of Zygomatic Implants?
Studies have shown that zygomatic implant surgery has a high success rate, in many cases exceeding 95%. Patients are advised to adhere to the postoperative instructions provided by their dentist. If you take good care of your dental health by following proper hygiene practices, your zygomatic implants are most likely guaranteed to be a huge success!
How Much Does Zygomatic Implant Surgery In Albania Cost?
The cost of zygomatic implant surgery can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the number of implants required, etc. Generally, zygomatic implant procedures are a bit more expensive compared to traditional single implants. That’s because they are a more complex, specialized procedure.
However, zygomatic implants in Albania provide one of the most affordable options in Europe. Dr. Roland Zhuka has dedicated his career to the field of advanced implantology. Our goal is to make such complex, life-changing procedures accessible to anyone. If you want to learn more about our dental implant surgery prices, book a free online consultation with Dr. Zhuka.
How Long Does It Take To Get The Final Prosthesis Over?
Thanks to immediate loading implantology, zygomatic implant interventions can be completed in one single day. The placement of a fixed prosthesis can be completed in 72 hours, which is a tremendous benefit for patients who wish to enjoy their new smile as soon as possible.