Zygomatic Implants

ygomatic dental implants (also known as Zygoma) are a surgical restorative option for patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw who may not be candidates for standard dental implants.

Unlike traditional implants placed into the maxillary (jaw) bone, Zygoma implants are specifically designed to be anchored into the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone). This provides a stable foundation for a full-arch restoration in cases where the jawbone has insufficient volume.

While traditional restorative pathways often involve bone grafting to increase jawbone density, Zygomatic implants provide a clinical alternative that utilizes existing facial bone structure.

At Bond St, our team provides comprehensive clinical assessments for patients seeking a second opinion regarding their suitability for dental implants. Following a thorough medical and radiographic evaluation, we can determine if Zygomatic implants are an appropriate pathway for restoring your dental function and aesthetics.

For patients with severe maxillary bone loss, zygomatic implants provide a restorative pathway that utilizes the cheekbone for anchorage. This approach is often considered when traditional bone grafting is not preferred or clinically indicated.

The Clinical Features of Zygomatic Implants:

• Treatment Efficiency: Can often be performed as a single-stage surgical procedure.

• Bone Preservation: Utilizes existing zygomatic bone structure, often removing the clinical requirement for supplementary bone grafting.

• Aesthetic Integration: Designed to support a prosthesis that aligns with natural dental aesthetics.

• Fixed Restoration: Provides a stable, non-removable alternative to traditional removable dentures.

• Accessibility: Allows for full-arch rehabilitation (such as All-on-4®) in patients with significant bone atrophy.

• Clinical Longevity: Supported by peer-reviewed studies showing high long-term success rates when maintained correctly.

• Functional Restoration: Supports the immediate loading of a provisional bridge to restore oral function.

Zygomatic implants are a restorative option for patients experiencing significant maxillary bone loss. This condition may result from long-term tooth loss, extended denture wear, or bone atrophy associated with advanced periodontal disease.

You may be a candidate for this procedure if you have been previously advised that you have insufficient bone volume for standard dental implants or full-arch restorations like All-on-4®.

Comparing Restorative Pathways

Traditional bone grafting is a common clinical approach to address bone loss, but it requires a multi-stage process and a recovery period before implants can be placed. During this healing phase, patients typically utilize a removable prosthesis. Zygomatic implants offer an alternative clinical pathway that utilizes the cheekbone for anchorage, which often allows for the immediate loading of a provisional bridge.

Clinical Standards at Bond St

Our maxillofacial surgeons perform Zygomatic implant procedures within our purpose-built day surgery in South Yarra. This treatment is a clinically recognized and effective method for complex tooth replacement. Our team focuses on comprehensive pre-operative preparation and post-operative support to manage patient comfort and support a stable clinical outcome.

The primary difference lies in the length of the implant and the anatomical site of anchorage. Standard dental implants are utilized when there is adequate jawbone volume. However, when significant bone loss has occurred, the specialised design of a zygomatic implant allows it to be anchored securely into the zygomatic (cheek) bone. At Bond St, all our dental implants are fabricated from medical-grade titanium that meets rigorous clinical standards.

In cases where the upper jaw is significantly bone-deficient, a “Quad Zygoma” approach may be considered. This involves the placement of two zygomatic implants on each side of the facial structure to provide a stable foundation for a full-arch set of replacement teeth. This technique allows for restorative treatment even in complex cases of advanced bone atrophy.

At Bond St, zygomatic implants are part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your clinical requirements. Every patient’s surgical journey is unique; however, a typical clinical pathway often includes the following stages:

Step 1: Clinical Consultation and Assessment Following an initial discussion with our treatment coordinators, you will have a formal consultation with a registered Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. They will perform a clinical assessment, discuss the surgical process, and arrange for necessary diagnostic imaging.

Step 2: Digital Imaging and Surgical Planning We utilise modern digital technology, including CT scans and radiographic imaging, to assist in the precise planning of your procedure. This data allows our surgical team to map the anatomical structures of the jaw and cheekbone.

Step 3: Surgical Procedure Once the clinical goals for the function and aesthetics of your restoration are established, your surgery will be scheduled. Our South Yarra clinic features a purpose-built day surgery suite, allowing our Maxillofacial Surgeons to perform the procedure in a familiar clinical environment. In many cases, a provisional bridge can be fitted on the same day as the surgery, allowing for immediate functional restoration.

Preparing for Your Procedure Our team provides detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to your health needs. General preparation typically includes:

• Maintaining a balanced nutritional intake.

• Smoking cessation (as smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure).

• Arranging for a responsible adult to transport you home following sedation or general anaesthetic.

• Preparing soft foods for the initial post-operative healing phase.

• Strictly adhering to the clinical instructions provided by your surgical team.

At Bond St, we aim to provide clear and upfront information regarding the costs associated with your care. Our Treatment Coordinator will provide a detailed breakdown of fees as part of your comprehensive zygomatic implant treatment plan.

We understand that restorative dental surgery involves significant financial consideration. To assist in managing these costs, we provide information on various payment options. You can discuss these options and your clinical requirements during a consultation with our team.