What does “Zygomatic implants” mean?
Zygomatic implants are designed to obtain support from the cheekbone, or zygoma, to restore teeth in the upper jaw. This complex treatment is considered for selected patients whose severe upper-jaw bone deficiency makes conventional implant treatment difficult.
Ask which alternatives have been compared
Zygomatic implants may be considered when conventional reconstruction is difficult because of severe maxillary atrophy or previous treatment failure. First compare implants using remaining bone, treatment with grafting and other restorative possibilities. Anchorage in the cheekbone alone does not establish suitability.
Plan surgery and restoration together
CT or CBCT assessment of the upper jaw, zygoma and sinuses informs the final restoration position and connections. Because surgery is complex and close to important structures, appropriately trained and experienced clinicians and a setting capable of managing severe complications are important.
Consider long-term complications and care
Reported problems include sinusitis, an opening between the mouth and sinus, soft-tissue inflammation, and screw or restoration damage. Rare but serious injury to nearby structures such as the orbital cavity must also be considered. Plan a cleanable restoration and follow-up, and report unusual symptoms to the surgical team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone choose this to avoid bone grafting?
No. It is a selective treatment requiring assessment of severe maxillary bone deficiency and the suitability of conventional treatment and grafting alternatives. Anatomy, sinus health and surgical and restorative risks must be considered together.
Can I eat normally immediately after surgery?
That cannot be guaranteed. Initial stability and restoration design determine the loading plan. Follow instructions about permitted chewing forces and food; a connected restoration does not mean unrestricted use.
Understand complex upper-jaw reconstruction
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- A choice suited to your condition
Why is this being considered instead of conventional options?
Explanation and evidenceAsk for a comparison of remaining bone and sinus findings, grafting and other prosthetic options, each approach’s burden and long-term maintenance needs.
Global consensus on rehabilitation of the edentulous maxilla: zygomatic, standard-length and short implants - Care after treatment
How would problems during or after surgery be managed?
Explanation and evidenceCheck relevant training and experience, the surgical setting, management of sinus, soft-tissue and prosthetic complications, and continuing care.
ITI zygomatic implant consensus: surgery, prostheses and complications (2023)
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- ITI: indications and planning for zygomatic implants (2023)academy.iti.org (opens in a new tab)
- ITI zygomatic implant consensus: surgery, prostheses and complications (2023)pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
- Global consensus on rehabilitation of the edentulous maxilla: zygomatic, standard-length and short implantspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (opens in a new tab)
