Zygomatic Dental Implants
 If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for traditional implants due to upper jaw bone loss, zygomatic dental implants may be the breakthrough solution you’ve been searching for. These specialized implants anchor into the cheekbone—offering a graft-free, long-lasting option for full-arch restoration. At Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery, our skilled oral surgeons provide advanced zygomatic implant treatment tailored to patients with severe bone loss.
What Are Zygomatic Dental Implants?
Zygomatic implants are longer than traditional implants and are designed to anchor into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) rather than the upper jaw (maxilla). This approach eliminates the need for bone grafting or sinus lifts in patients with significant bone resorption.
Placed at an angle, these implants offer solid support for implant-supported prostheses, often in combination with standard implants for a full-arch solution. They’re ideal for restoring smiles in patients with an atrophic maxilla—where the bone has severely deteriorated due to age, disease, or long-term denture use.
Who Needs Zygomatic Implants?
You may be a candidate for zygomatic dental implants if you’ve experienced extensive bone loss in the upper jaw or have been previously told you are ineligible for traditional implants. Common scenarios include:
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Severe Bone Loss - Often caused by prolonged denture wear, trauma, or periodontal disease.
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Failed Implants - Patients with unsuccessful past implant procedures.
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Graft Avoidance - Those who wish to skip time-consuming bone grafting or sinus lift surgeries.
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Permanent Alternative to Dentures - Individuals seeking a secure, full-arch restoration without removable prosthetics. |
During your consultation, advanced imaging will be used to assess bone structure and determine whether zygoma implants are right for you.
How Zygomatic Implant Surgery Works
Zygomatic implant surgery is a specialized procedure that requires surgical precision and experience. Here’s what to expect:
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Comprehensive imaging and digital planning (CBCT scan) to map your anatomy.
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Implants placed at an angle through the upper jaw into the zygomatic bone.
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Optional placement of standard implants in the front of the jaw for hybrid support.
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Performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia for optimal comfort.
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Temporary prosthesis may be placed same day for immediate function. |
Healing typically takes several months, during which the implants undergo osseointegration—fusing with the bone. After this period, your permanent restoration is placed, offering long-lasting function and aesthetics.
Benefits of Zygomatic Dental Implants
Zygomatic implants are a game-changer for patients with complex upper jaw conditions. Key benefits include:
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No Bone Grafting Required - Avoid multiple surgeries and long healing periods.
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Immediate Results - Many patients receive temporary teeth the same day.
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Restores Chewing and Aesthetics - Eat, speak, and smile with renewed confidence.
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High Success Rate - Especially when placed by experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons. |
This solution not only eliminates the need for removable dentures but also restores your facial structure, improves speech, and enhances daily comfort.
Zygomatic Implants vs Traditional Implants
When comparing zygomatic implants to traditional implant methods, the differences are clear:
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Bone Requirements - Traditional implants need sufficient jawbone; zygomatic implants do not.
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Implant Length and Angle - Zygomatic implants are longer and placed diagonally into denser bone.
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Fewer Procedures - Avoids sinus lifts and bone grafting, reducing treatment time.
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Faster Results - In many cases, full arch restoration can begin the same day. |
If you’ve been told you need bone grafting or are not a candidate for implants, zygomatic implants may offer a more efficient, graft-free solution.
Cost and Insurance Information
Because of the complexity of the procedure, zygomatic implant treatment typically involves a greater investment than standard implants. However, it may also reduce overall costs by eliminating the need for bone grafts and additional surgeries.
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Factors Affecting Cost - Number of implants, sedation options, and custom prosthetics.
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Fewer Total Visits - No bone grafting means shorter treatment timelines.
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Insurance Coverage - Some policies may cover portions of surgery or prosthetic elements. |
Financing options are available for qualifying patients. For a personalized estimate and insurance guidance, call (980) 332-7990 to schedule your consultation.
Recovery and Long-Term Success
Zygomatic implant recovery is manageable and often quicker than expected. Here’s what patients typically experience:
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Initial Healing - Swelling and mild discomfort for a few days.
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Soft Diet - Recommended during the initial phase for implant protection.
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Final Prosthesis - Placed after 3–6 months of healing and integration.
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Durability - With proper care, zygomatic implants can last decades. |
Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular checkups are key to long-term success. Our team provides full guidance on care and maintenance for your restored smile.
Why Choose an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon?
Placing zygomatic dental implants requires advanced surgical expertise. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are uniquely qualified due to their training in facial anatomy, surgical techniques, and complex implantology.
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Advanced Training - Specialized knowledge of zygomatic bone structure and access techniques.
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High-Risk Case Management - Skilled in treating severe bone loss and failed implants.
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Technology-Driven Precision - Use of 3D imaging and guided tools for safety and accuracy.
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Comprehensive Sedation Options - From IV sedation to general anesthesia for patient comfort. |
Our surgeons at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery combine clinical skill with technology and compassion to deliver superior outcomes for complex implant cases.
Schedule a Zygomatic Implant Consultation
If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for implants due to bone loss, don’t give up on your smile. A consultation at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery will determine if zygomatic implants can restore your upper arch without grafting.
Call (980) 332-7990 to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and explore your options for lasting, full-arch restoration.
FAQs
What are zygomatic dental implants?
Zygomatic dental implants are longer implants that anchor into the cheekbone (zygomatic bone) rather than the upper jaw. They are used when there is not enough bone in the upper jaw to support traditional implants and can restore an entire upper arch without bone grafting.
Am I a candidate for zygomatic implants?
You may be a candidate if you have severe bone loss in the upper jaw, wear dentures, or have been told you are not eligible for traditional implants. A full evaluation with imaging is necessary to confirm your suitability.
How long does recovery take after zygomatic implant surgery?
Initial recovery takes a few days, with most patients returning to normal activities shortly after surgery. The final prosthesis is typically placed after a healing phase of 3–6 months.
Will insurance help cover the cost of zygomatic implants?
Some insurance policies may cover parts of the zygomatic implant procedure, particularly the surgical or prosthetic components. Contact (980) 332-7990 to speak with our team and explore your insurance and financing options. |
