What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants are a solution for people who have lost bone density. Whereas traditional implants involve drilling directly into the jawbone, Zygomatic implants are much longer than traditional implants and are anchored into the zygomatic bone, AKA, the cheekbone. The cheekbone is much denser that the jawbone and therefore more stable.
Reasons for Severe Bone Loss in the Upper Jaw
Bone loss in the upper jaw can be attributed to several factors. The three primary reasons include:
- Periodontal Disease: Untreated gum disease can lead to bone deterioration around the teeth, causing instability and eventual tooth loss.
- Trauma: Facial injuries or accidents can damage the jawbone, leading to bone loss over time.
- Tooth Loss: When teeth are lost and not replaced promptly, the jawbone that once supported them can start to resorb due to lack of stimulation.
Benefits of Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants can offer a number of benefits that extend beyond traditional implant solutions:
- Immediate Improvement: Patients experience a rapid improvement in their appearance, speech, and ability to chew immediately after the procedure.
- No Bone Grafting: The most significant advantage is the elimination of the need for extensive bone grafting, which reduces both recovery time and discomfort.
- Increased Stability: Zygomatic implants are anchored in dense bone, increasing stability and longevity.
- Minimal Discomfort: The minimally invasive procedure results in less post-operative discomfort compared to traditional bone grafting techniques.
Zygomatic Implants – The Process
Dr. Amini-Salari starts with a consultation using advanced technology to gather information about your case. She then uses pre-surgical 3D planning with CBCT scans to develop a comprehensive overview and. This ensures that each implant is placed with precision and accuracy.
During surgery, she anchors long implant screws in the zygoma. Typically, the process requires two zygomatic implants in combination with two to four traditional implants. The traditional implants are placed in the anterior region, toward the front of the jaw, where the upper front teeth were previously located. If you have teeth that need to be extracted before zygomatic implant placement, they can be removed during this single surgery.
Who Can Place Zygomatic Implants?
The surgical skill involved in placing zygomatic implants requires extensive expertise, experience, and training that not every surgeon has. Dr. Amini-Salari is formally trained in the zygomatic placement and travels the globe to train other doctors.
Are Zygomatic Implants Right for You?
A solution for those who have been told they have the most severe form of bone loss, zygomatic implants allow patients to achieve maximum oral function and an aesthetically pleasing smile. Call our office at 617-965-0060 or complete an online appointment request here to schedule a comprehensive oral exam to see if Zygomatic implants are right for you.
