For patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw, traditional dental implants may not always be an option, at least not without advanced techniques. In these cases, some clinics turn to zygoma implants as a solution. While they can work in certain circumstances, we generally avoid zygoma implants at All On Four Dental Implant Centers in favor of safer, less invasive alternatives like pterygoid implants or All-on-4 dental implants.
In this blog, we’ll explain what zygoma implants are, why we choose to avoid them, and which alternatives provide better long-term outcomes.
What Are Zygoma Implants?
Zygoma dental implants are extra-long implants that anchor into the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone) instead of the maxilla (upper jawbone). These implants are typically used when there is extensive bone loss in the back of the upper jaw, and traditional implants won’t hold.
While zygoma implants can allow for full-arch restoration without bone grafting, they also come with increased complexity and risk.
Why We Avoid Zygoma Implants
At All On Four Dental Implant Centers, we prioritize your health, comfort, and long-term implant success. Here’s why we generally avoid zygomatic implants:
1. Increased Surgical Risk
Zygoma implants require advanced surgical access near critical anatomical structures like the eye socket and sinuses. This introduces a higher risk for complications, including:
- Nerve damage
- Sinus issues
- Infections
- Long recovery time
2. More Invasive Than Necessary
The placement of zygomatic implants is a highly invasive procedure that may require hospitalization or general anesthesia. In contrast, options like pterygoid implants or All-on-4 dental implants can be placed in-office with local anesthesia and conscious sedation.
3. Difficult to Maintain and Restore
Zygoma implants are more complex to restore and may limit future prosthetic options. This makes maintenance and long-term care more difficult for both patients and providers.
4. Effective Alternatives Exist
Modern advancements in implant dentistry mean that zygomatic implants are no longer the only option for patients with significant bone loss. Pterygoid implants, tilted posterior implants, and digital surgical planning allow us to provide full-arch solutions without excessive surgical intervention.
Better Alternatives to Zygoma Implants
At All On Four Dental Implant Centers, we routinely help patients who have been told they need zygoma implants—but don’t. Our preferred alternatives include:
All-on-4 Dental Implants
This technique uses four strategically angled implants to support a full arch of teeth, often eliminating the need for bone grafts or zygomatic implants, even in cases of moderate bone loss.
Pterygoid Implants
These implants anchor into the dense pterygoid region of the upper jaw, providing posterior support without needing to go as far as the cheekbone.
Bone Grafting (in Select Cases)
In some situations, a minor bone graft may be used to build up the jaw and avoid more invasive procedures like zygomatic implant surgery.
Each treatment plan is carefully designed using advanced 3D imaging and digital tools to ensure the most effective and least invasive solution.
Personalized Implant Solutions—Without Zygoma Risks
Not every dental implant case requires aggressive surgical intervention. Most don’t. Our approach is conservative, patient-focused, and built around the belief that your comfort and safety come first.
Ready to Explore Your Implant Options?
If you’ve been told you need zygomatic implants, it’s time to get a second opinion.
Call (877) 731-9866 to schedule a free consultation at All On Four Dental Implant Centers and discover safer, less invasive alternatives that can restore your smile with fewer risks and better results.
Let us help you smile with confidence, without unnecessary surgery.