Implants

Zygomatic Implants

IU dental implants for Carlos (close up, smiling) landscape

What are Zygomatic implants?

A Zygomatic dental implant is used when low bone density prevents standard implants from being inserted into your upper jawbone. Zygomatic dental implants are inserted diagonally along the sinus wall into your Zygoma (cheek bone) which provides a secure anchor point for an abutment which holds a crown or bridge. This prevents the need for a sinus lift.

Who needs Zygomatic implants?

Zygomatic implants are required when the upper jawbone density is too low to support a standard grade 5 titanium post. Bone loss occurs when a lost or extracted tooth is removed. Over time the lack of stimulation from a tooth's root causes the bone to begin to break down as the body will no longer prioritise bone growth in this area. Because of how we bite and chew, a dental implant needs strong bones as their foundation. This prevents your new teeth from becoming loose and your implants failing.

Alternatives to Zygomatic implants

There are several alternatives to having Zygomatic implants. These include:

  • Bone graft: A bone graft is the standard method of treating bone loss. Using bone from another part of your body, a donor or an animal-donor, new bone is positioned in your jaw. This material slowly integrates to provide a strong foundation for implant procedures.
  • Sinus lift: A sinus lift specifically treats bone loss in your upper jaw. In this procedure a bone graft is positioned between your upper jawbone and sinus membrane near your back teeth. This provides a strong foundation for a dental implant
  • Pterygoid implants: Like a zygomatic implant, a Pterygoid implant bypasses areas of low bone density. This time, it is anchored to the sphenoid bone.

Benefits of Zygomatic implants

Apart from allowing teeth implants to be placed over areas in your upper jaw with low bone density, the main benefit is the lack of delay that would be caused by a bone graft or sinus lift. Zygomatic procedures can be done at the same time as your standard dental implants whereas having a bone graft means you would need around 6 months to heal, allowing the graft to integrate with your upper jawbone.

What is the price of a Zygomatic implant?

Yorkshire Dental Suite include zygomatic dental implants at no extra charge. A single implant costs from £2800 with a full arch of teeth costing £15995 on average. YDS helps you to spread the cost with finance from 0% APR.

How do I know if I need zygomatic implants?

To identify if you need Zygomatic implants check for symptoms of bone loss include the development of overbite/overjet or underbite, puckering of your face and the appearance of rapid ageing and lines around your mouth, pain when chewing food, loose teeth, teeth and jaw pain, and problems speaking. If you have experienced any of these symptoms consult your local Yorkshire Dental Suite clinic and book in a consultation and oral health-check. We will take scans identify the cause of your issues and suggest whether zygomatic implants are right for you.

How to clean my mouth after a Zygomatic procedure

After your tooth implant procedure you should wait at least 24 hours before restarting any oral hygiene procedures. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to 250ml of lukewarm water. Take small sips and rinse portions of your mouth thoroughly. It should take around 5 m ins to finish this task. Repeat 2-3 times a day as directed by your dentist. Avoid alcohol based high street mouthwashes which can cause issues as your mouth heals.

How many Zygomatic implants fail?

A study by for.org suggests that only 4% of zygomatic implant treatments fail within 12 years. As a result the success rate is high with only minor complications being reported.

What are Zygomatic implants made of?

Zygomatic dental implants are made from grade 5 titanium. This material is highly corrosion resistant and helps prevent rejection.

Zygomatic implants procedure

The procedure for getting zygomatic implants is the same as with standard dental implants.

  1. Phone consultation
  2. In person consultation, scans and oral health check at your local YDS clinic
  3. Surgery day: Your implants secured, and you receive your temporary crown or bridge
  4. Recovery & trial teeth fitting
  5. Final fitting of your finished crown or arch

Are zygomatic implants more expensive?

Yorkshire Dental Suite provide zygomatic dental implants at no extra charge. A single implant costs from £2800 with a full arch of teeth costing £15995 on average. YDS helps you to spread the cost with finance from 0% APR.

Zygomatic implants recovery time?

Zygomatic implant procedures have an initial recovery time of between 3 and 4 months. This enables your gums to heal so your final crowns or bridges to be attached.

How long do Zygomatic implants last?

Zygomatic implants last up to 20 years with proper care. The implants are unlikely to be the reason for you needing a refresh as they are very durable. Instead, your jaw can lose bone density, your abutment wearing down or your crown or bridge become damaged. These issues will mean additional tests and procedures to help you to maintain your smile.

What are the downsides of zygomatic implants?

No dental procedure is without risks. When considering this treatment the downsides of Zygomatic implants are:

  • Risk of sinus perforation or inflammation
  • Nerve damage (infraorbital nerve pain cheek lip or gum)
  • Damage to your eye socket
  • Increased swelling and bruising compared to dental implants
  • More surgery needed if it needs to be removed due to infection
  • Can affect bite alignment and appearance

Yorkshire Dental Suite recommends zygomatic dental implants where bone loss is limited to the upper jaw. If you are concerned about any potential issues please discuss this with your local YDS dentist.

Where can I find Zygomatic implants near me?

Yorkshire Dental Suite started in the North East, building local clinics that provide best in class experience for patients nearby. Find zygomatic implants near you at:

Can I get Zygomatic implants on the NHS

The NHS do not provide cosmetic dental treatments however in rare health related cases such as illness or injury zygomatic implants can be offered. Speak to your local NHS dentist to check for eligibility. Zygomatic treatments are classed as a Band 3 NHS treatment costing £319.10.

Can I get Zygomatic implants in my lower jaw

Zygomatic dental implants are not suitable for your lower jaw. Instead, you should seek advice about bone loss treatments or Subperiosteal Implants which use a metal frame to support standard dental implants. Speak to your local YDS dentist for details on alternative treatments.