Zygoma implants are intended for all patients who have come to realise that they are not candidates for implants and that dentures are their only option.
If this sounds like you, then you should certainly read the text below about the installation of zygomatic implants.
We discussed Zygoma implants with oral surgery specialise, Dr. Miroslav Piljagić from the Dentum Clinic, who has installed more than 500 Zygoma implants to date.
Zygoma implants
Zygoma implants are a special type of implant, named after the fact that they are installed into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone). Since these implants are installed into the cheekbone, they are intended to resolve toothlessness in the upper jaw.
This type of implant has already been used for decades in oncological patients, and as dental implant science progresses, they are being increasingly used with a high success rate in other patients that lack sufficient density of the jawbone.
In the photograph above, you can see two Zygoma implants, on the left and right side of the jaw, and two standard implants in the middle (Zygoma hybrid). In such situations, the missing teeth in the upper jaw are replaced using the All-On-4® method in combination with Zygoma implants.
Every patient is individual, and so is the number of implants that need to be installed. A toothless jaw can be replaced with 2 or 4 Zygoma implants, without or in combination with standard implants.
Zygoma Implants – am I a candidate?
The following patients are all candidates for the installation of zygomatic implants:
- They have no good quality bone in the upper jaw,
- They do not want to perform bone augmentation or have had a failed bone augmentation procedure (alveolar ridge),
- They have been told that they are not candidates for implants because they lack sufficient bone,
- They want a quick, permanent solution for toothlessness.
Book your free first consultation and find out is this the right solution for your smile!
Zygoma implants – the installation process
Zygoma implants are built into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) as this bone is dense and secures a permanent anchor for a fixed bridge in the upper jaw. Installation of Zygoma implants is the most demanding surgical technique in implantology, and is performed on patients with extreme bone resorption in the upper jaw. Because it is so demanding, it is of critical importance that the surgeon is highly skilled and experienced.
This procedure can be performed by oral surgery specialists, maxillofacial surgeons, and dentists. Because of the skills required, there are few dentists and surgeons who work with Zygoma implants.
For patients who do not have sufficient bone volume for the installation of standard implants, zygomatic implants could be your only option. Zygoma implants do not required bone augmentation, which significantly eases and shortens the entire process.
The process of installing zygomatic implants is as follows:
- It is first necessary to perform a detailed dental examination in order to see which options are available to you.
- Installation of the zygomatic implants is planned using digital technology; a CT scan is required for the dentist to determine whether you are a candidate, and to obtain a precise overview of your situation to ensure safe installation.
- Once the dentist determines that you are a candidate, an appointment for the procedure is booked.
- The installation of Zygoma implants (without or in combination with standard implants) is performed under conscious sedation. The entire procedure takes about two and a half hours. Don’t worry, you will receive temporary teeth already in the first phase.
- The final step takes place 3 months later after the process of osteointegration is complete (the implant becomes fused to the bone).
Your temporary bridge will be installed on the same day, so you don’t need to work about being toothless until your permanent teeth are installed. The entire treatment process, including healing time before the permanent bridge is installed, is between 3 – 6 months.
Zygoma implants – is installation painful?
Generally, the installation of tooth implants is not painful as it is performed under local anaesthetic. For Zygoma implants, they are installed under conscious sedation. The patient is semi-conscious and cooperates with the surgeon. The patient cannot feel any of the work during the procedure and basically sleeps through it.
What about after sedation?
Your dentist will give you instructions on what to do before and after the procedure, and these are the rules of conduct if you will be going under sedation.
- You should not eat at least 6 hours before the sedation and procedure. You can have coffee without milk and 100 ml of water 2 hours before the procedure.
- On the day of the procedure, do not eat, drink sodas or milk.
Before the procedure, you may take any required medications. You will discuss the entire procedure with the anaesthesiologist in advance, and he will explain everything and calm you if you should be feeling any anxiety about the sedation.
How long is the recovery after implantation of the Zygoma implants?
It is necessary to wait three months for the implant to fuse with the bones before installation of the permanent teeth. After the procedure, it is important that you rest and use cold compresses on your cheeks. The dentist will recommend that you eat only soft foods or drink protein shakes over the next few days.
Patient recovery after installation of the Zygoma implants is nearly the same as for any other operation performed under conscious sedation. During recovery, some swelling can be expected, though this is regulated with post-operative chilling and medications.
Dr. Miroslav Piljagić, oral surgery specialist, dentist at the Dentum Clinic
Can I have both jaws done in one day?
For patients undergoing the All-On-4® procedure in the upper and lower jaw (where 2 or 4 zygomatic implants are installed in the upper jaw and standard implants in the lower jaw), it is possible to install the implants in both jaws in a single day.
Of course, this is something to discuss with your dentist during your consultation.
Zygoma implants – what is the success rate?
The installation of Zygoma implants has a high success rate (over 98%), especially when we take into account the development of technology and installation methods over the past 20 years. As with standard implants, the success of the procedure and its lifespan vary from patient to patient, and this depends most on regular oral hygiene. In order for implants and the prosthetic to have a long life, it is very important to brush teeth, use mouthwash and a water flosser at least 2 times per day.
Regular check-ups with your dentist and dental hygienist are also essential in order to professionally clean your teeth (cleaning areas that cannot be reached with a normal toothbrush). If you abide by all these guidelines, your implants should last you your entire life.
Zygoma implants are usually a last resort for patients to obtain permanent tooth. If you have been told that you are not a candidate for implants, we invite you to come in for a free first examination and consultation to see whether you are a candidate for Zygoma implants.
Dr. Miroslav Piljagić, oral surgery specialist, Dentum Clinic
What is the difference between standard implants and Zygoma implants?
Zygoma implants are longer than standard implants and they have what is called a root shape.
Zygoma implants are made of titanium and are longer than standard implants (30-60 mm).
Advantages of Zygoma implants: Your last resort for permanent teeth
The installation of implants and a permanent prosthetic (bridge), patients get their self-confidence, functionality and aesthetic smile back.
After finally receiving their new smile, patients can once again enjoy all social interactions, as the installation of implants improves oral function (speaking, chewing and swallowing).
The Zygoma implant installation method enables a permanent solution, which brings numerous benefits:
- Improved appearance,
- Improved speech,
- Increased self-confidence,
- Teeth and gums look normal,
- You can finally eat all types of food,
- Removal of painful spots caused by dentures,
- Long-term, permanent solution that is not removed,
- The main advantage of this technique is that it rarely requires bone augmentation,
- Procedure is ideal for patients who suffer from serious bone loss,
- You immediately receive temporary teeth after the first phase so you will not be toothless at any time.
Don’t settle with wearing dentures for the rest of your life. Come in for a free first examination and consultation with Dr. Piljagić to the Dentum Clinic and change your life for the better!
Book your free first examination and consultation online,
email: smile@dentum.com
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