Zygomatic implants are longer dental implants anchored in the cheekbone (the zygoma) instead of the upper jawbone. Because the cheekbone is dense and strong, they can support a full arch of new teeth even when severe bone loss has left too little bone for traditional implants. For many patients, they make it possible to get fixed teeth without extensive bone grafting.
Being told you’re “not a candidate” for dental implants can be discouraging, especially after years of struggling with failing teeth or loose dentures. But in many cases, that answer isn’t final. At Golden Oak Sedation Dental & Implant Center, zygomatic implants give patients with severe upper-jaw bone loss a path to a stable, permanent smile.
Why Do Some People Not Have Enough Bone for Implants?
When teeth are lost, the jawbone that once held them starts to shrink because it’s no longer stimulated by chewing. The longer teeth are missing, or the longer someone wears dentures, the more bone can be lost. Gum disease, infections, and the natural shape of the sinuses can also leave the upper jaw too thin to hold traditional implants securely.
What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants are specially designed implants that are much longer than standard implants. Instead of relying on the upper jawbone, they extend into the zygomatic bone, the dense bone of your cheek. This creates a strong anchor that can support a full set of fixed teeth.
Learn more about zygomatic dental implants.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants may be right for you if you:
- Have significant bone loss in the upper jaw
- Have been told you need extensive bone grafting or a sinus lift
- Have worn upper dentures for many years
- Have had failed implants or grafts in the past
- Want a fixed full-arch solution without long waits for grafts to heal
A consultation with 3D imaging is the only way to know for sure.
How Are Zygomatic Implants Different From Traditional Implants?
| Traditional Implants | Zygomatic Implants | |
|---|---|---|
| Where they anchor | Upper or lower jawbone | Cheekbone (zygoma) |
| Length | Standard | Much longer |
| Bone needed in upper jaw | Adequate bone required | Can work with severe bone loss |
| Bone grafting | Sometimes needed | Often avoided |
| Used for | Single teeth to full arches | Full upper arch restorations |
Can Zygomatic Implants Help Me Avoid Bone Grafting?
Often, yes. Traditional implants in a thin upper jaw may require bone grafting or a sinus lift first, which can add months to treatment. Zygomatic implants bypass the thin bone entirely, which can shorten your overall timeline.
What Is the Zygomatic Implant Process?
- Consultation and 3D imaging: We use advanced 3D imaging to evaluate your bone and map your cheekbones and sinuses.
- Digital planning: Your implant positions and new smile are planned digitally for precise placement.
- Implant surgery: Zygomatic implants are placed, often alongside conventional implants. IV sedation is available so you can relax.
- Temporary teeth: In many cases, a temporary set of teeth can be attached soon after surgery.
- Final restoration: After healing, your permanent full-arch teeth are created in our in-house dental lab and attached.
How Long Is Recovery?
Most patients experience swelling and mild to moderate discomfort for several days. Following your post-op instructions, eating soft foods, and resting help you heal comfortably. Your implants continue to bond with the bone over the following months.
Why Does Experience Matter?
Zygomatic implants are an advanced procedure that requires specialized training, precise planning, and careful placement. Choose a team with experience in complex full-arch cases and advanced imaging technology. At Golden Oak, Dr. Johnny Shanks has advanced training from the Kois Center for Dental Excellence, and our practice focuses on implant and full-arch care.
What Results Can I Expect?
With zygomatic implants, many patients who thought they had no options can:
- Eat a wider variety of foods
- Speak and smile with confidence
- Stop relying on loose dentures and adhesives
- Enjoy a fixed, natural-looking smile
See real results in our before and after photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are zygomatic implants safe? When planned and placed by an experienced team using 3D imaging, zygomatic implants are a well-established option for severe bone loss.
Can zygomatic implants be used in the lower jaw? No. Zygomatic implants are used in the upper jaw because they anchor in the cheekbone.
How long do zygomatic implants last? With good care and regular checkups, they’re designed to be a long-lasting solution.
Explore Your Options in Cookeville and Crossville
If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for implants, we’d love to give you a second opinion. Call (931) 400-8760 in Cookeville or (931) 478-4774 for Crossville patients, or contact us to schedule your consultation.