Dental vs Zygomatic Implants, Which One Is Right for You?

Why Choosing the Right Implant Matters?

Missing teeth affect more than just your smile; they can lead to bone loss, difficulty chewing, and loss of confidence. Dental implants restore function and aesthetics by anchoring artificial teeth in the bone. However, not all implants are the same. When the upper jaw has insufficient bone, a conventional implant may not be viable. In these cases, zygomatic implants, anchored in the cheekbone, offer a lifeline. This article compares traditional dental implants with zygomatic implants, helping you decide which solution fits your needs.

What Are Traditional Dental Implants?

Traditional implants consist of a titanium screw placed into the jawbone. Once the bone heals around the screw (a process called osseointegration), a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, creating a natural‑looking, functional tooth replacement. Because these implants rely on jawbone volume, patients need adequate bone density. If the bone is thin or has resorbed after tooth loss, bone‑grafting procedures may be necessary before implantation.

Advantages of Traditional Implants

• Predictability: They are well‑established with high success rates and are suitable for replacing single or multiple teeth.

• Lower cost: Traditional implants are generally less expensive than zygomatic implants because they involve standard components and techniques.

• Versatility: They can support crowns, bridges, or even full‑arch fixed dentures.

Disadvantages of Traditional Implants

• Bone requirement: They need sufficient bone volume. Patients with significant bone loss may require bone grafting, which adds time and cost.

• Longer healing: Conventional implants typically require several months of healing before the final restoration can be placed.

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants are specialised implants for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Rather than anchoring into the jawbone, they bypass it entirely and anchor in the zygomatic (cheek) bone. These implants are much longer and are inserted at an angle to reach the denser cheekbone.

Why Use Zygomatic Implants?

• Bone bypass: They eliminate the need for bone grafting because they anchor in a different bone.

• Immediate function: Many patients receive a fixed provisional restoration on the same day or within a few days, thereby reducing the overall treatment time.

• Hope for difficult cases: Patients who have been told they are not candidates for traditional implants may still be candidates for zygomatic implants.

Key Differences: Bone Requirements, Placement & Length

A quick comparison clarifies the fundamental distinctions:

• Bone requirement: Traditional implants need adequate jawbone density and may require grafting. Zygomatic implants do not; they utilise the cheekbone.

• Placement: Conventional implants are placed vertically into the jawbone. Zygomatic implants are longer and placed at an angle into the zygomatic bone.

• Procedure complexity: Zygomatic implant placement is more complex due to the anatomic structures involved and thus requires a surgeon with specialised training.

• Cost: Due to specialized components and surgical expertise, zygomatic implants typically cost more.

Pros and Cons of Traditional Implants

Pros

• Established and predictable outcomes

• Lower cost

• Suitable for a wide range of cases

Cons

• Require adequate bone density

• May require grafting, which extends treatment time

• The healing period before final restoration can be lengthy

Pros and Cons of Zygomatic Implants

Pros

• Ideal for patients with severe bone loss

• Avoid bone‑grafting procedures

• Faster treatment and recovery

Cons

• More complex and expensive procedure

• Requires a highly skilled surgeon

• Not suitable for all patients (must have a healthy zygomatic bone and meet general health criteria)

Who Is a Candidate? (Bone Loss & Health Factors)

Candidates for zygomatic implants include people with advanced bone resorption due to long‑term denture wear, periodontal disease, or trauma. Patients must have healthy zygomatic bones and be in good systemic health. Traditional implants suit those with adequate jawbone or patients willing to undergo bone grafting. Comprehensive imaging (CT scans) and consultation are necessary to determine candidacy.

Surgical Procedure & Recovery Timeline

Traditional implants:

Placement often occurs in two stages. The implant is inserted into the jawbone and allowed to integrate for three to six months. After healing, a second minor procedure attaches the abutment and crown. Healing involves mild swelling and discomfort; most patients return to normal activities within a day or two.

Zygomatic implants:

The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation because of its complexity. The surgeon angles the implants into the zygomatic bone, sometimes placing two per side for full‑arch restorations. Many patients receive a provisional fixed bridge within 24–72 hours. Recovery time is similar to traditional implants, though postoperative swelling and bruising may be more pronounced. Patients typically eat soft foods and return to work within a week.

Choosing an Experienced Surgeon

Both implant types require skilled clinicians, but zygomatic implants demand advanced surgical expertise. When selecting a surgeon:

• Verify credentials and experience with zygomatic implants.

• Ask to see before‑and‑after cases and patient testimonials.

• Ensure the clinic provides comprehensive imaging and 3D planning.

• Discuss sedation options and postoperative care.

Dr. Onur Ademhan is a maxillofacial and oral surgeon with extensive experience in both traditional and zygomatic implants. To determine which implant solution is right for you, schedule a consultation to evaluate bone volume, oral health, and aesthetic goals.