Zygoma implants are very long dental implants that are fixed into the cheekbone (called the zygomatic bone). They are used when the upper jawbone is too weak or thin to hold normal implants. Instead of building new bone through graft surgery, zygoma implants use the strong cheekbone for support. This allows people who thought they could never get fixed teeth to smile and eat again.
When are Zygoma Implants Needed?
Doctors suggest zygoma implants when:
- The upper jaw bone is very thin or missing.
- Bone grafts or sinus lift surgeries failed.
- Teeth were lost many years ago, and the bone has shrunk.
- After removal of a tumor in the upper jaw.
- In birth defects like cleft palate.
- When elderly patients want fixed teeth quickly without extra surgeries.
Size and Shape of Zygoma Implants
Zygoma implants are much longer than normal dental implants.
- Length: About 3 cm to 5 cm (normal implants are only 1 cm).
- Width: About 4 mm.
- The tip is sharp and strong to lock into the cheekbone.
- They are placed at an angle, so they come out in the right position for teeth.
Planning for Zygoma Implants
Before surgery, the dentist carefully checks:
- How much bone is left in the upper jaw.
- The health of the sinus and cheekbone (with scans like CBCT).
- Where the new teeth should be placed.
- Whether the patient’s health allows surgery.
Good planning makes the surgery safer, and the new teeth look natural.
Surgery for Zygoma Implants
The procedure is more advanced than normal implants:
- Done under general anesthesia or deep sleep with local numbing.
- A small cut is made in the gum.
- A path is drilled from the upper jaw towards the cheekbone.
- The long implant is screwed into the cheekbone.
- Gums are stitched back.
- In many cases, temporary fixed teeth can be given the same day.
Planning the New Teeth
After placing implants, the dentist plans the type of teeth that will be fixed.
- Most patients get fixed teeth immediately.
- The bite is adjusted so pressure spreads evenly.
- In very thin bone cases, four zygoma implants may be placed (two on each side).
- The teeth are designed to look natural and allow easy cleaning.
Making the New Teeth (Workflow)
Steps for making the final teeth:
1. Impressions: molds or 3D scans are taken.
2. Trial fitting: to check bite and smile.
3. Temporary teeth: given on the day of surgery or soon after.
4. Final teeth: made in strong material (titanium with acrylic or zirconia) after 3–6 months.
Care and Follow-up After Surgery
Follow-up visits are very important:
- First 3 months: frequent check-ups to see healing.
- Up to 1 year: check bite, gums, and cleaning habits.
- Every year: x-rays to check bone support.
Patients should clean daily with special brushes or water flossers.
Who Cannot Get Zygoma Implants?
Not everyone is a good candidate. They should be avoided if:
- The patient has uncontrolled diabetes, heart problems, or other major diseases.
- There is sinus infection or poor cheekbone quality.
- The patient cannot open their mouth wide enough.
- Heavy smokers, poor oral hygiene, or people unwilling to maintain care.
- People with teeth grinding (bruxism) may also face risks.
