FAQs
What are zygomatic dental implants?
Zygomatic dental implants are a specialized type of implant designed for patients who have experienced significant bone loss in the upper jaw. Unlike traditional dental implants, which are anchored directly into the jawbone, zygomatic implants are longer and anchor into the zygomatic bone, more commonly known as the cheekbone.
The cheekbone is naturally dense and does not deteriorate the way the jawbone can after tooth loss or prolonged denture wear. This makes zygomatic implants an excellent option for patients who have been told they do not have enough bone for conventional implants.
At Palani Center for Dental Implants, we use advanced 3D imaging and surgical planning to precisely place zygomatic implants for patients throughout Rancho Palos Verdes and the South Bay area.
Who is a good candidate for zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants are specifically designed for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw who would otherwise need extensive bone grafting before traditional implants could be placed.
You may be a candidate if you have been wearing an upper denture for many years and have experienced significant bone resorption, if you have lost bone due to advanced periodontal disease, or if a previous dentist told you that you are not eligible for standard dental implants because of insufficient bone.
Patients who want to avoid the lengthy healing time associated with sinus lifts and bone grafts are also strong candidates. During your consultation at Palani Center for Dental Implants, our team will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your bone structure, medical history, and treatment goals to determine whether zygomatic implants are the right path for you.
Do zygomatic implants require bone grafting?
No, and that is one of their greatest advantages. Traditional dental implants require a minimum amount of healthy jawbone to anchor into. When that bone is not available, patients are typically told they need bone grafting or a sinus lift procedure first, which can add six to twelve months of healing time before implants can even be placed.
Zygomatic implants bypass this step entirely by anchoring into the cheekbone instead of the jawbone. Because the zygomatic bone remains dense and stable regardless of jawbone deterioration, there is no need for supplemental grafting procedures.
This means patients can often receive their implants and a temporary set of functional teeth on the same day, dramatically reducing overall treatment time and allowing you to leave our Rancho Palos Verdes office with a restored smile.
What is the success rate of zygomatic implants?
Zygomatic implants have an excellent track record, with published clinical studies reporting success rates between 96 and 98 percent. This is comparable to traditional dental implants, which is remarkable given that zygomatic implants are typically placed in patients with the most challenging bone conditions.
The most commonly reported complication is mild sinusitis, which can usually be managed effectively and has become increasingly rare with modern surgical techniques such as the extra-sinus approach. As with any implant, long-term success depends on proper oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and following your provider’s aftercare instructions.
At Palani Center for Dental Implants, our team has the specialized training and experience needed to perform zygomatic implant procedures with precision, giving our patients the best possible foundation for a lasting, confident smile.