A Unique Solution for Jawbone Loss
If you have some teeth missing you’ll know how it can affect your life and your confidence. While dental implants have revolutionised tooth replacement, traditional implant options might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with severe jawbone loss. This is where zygomatic implants come in, offering a unique and innovative solution for patients with specific challenges.
What are Zygomatic Implants?
Unlike traditional implants placed in the jawbone, zygomatic implants are strategically anchored in the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone. This unique approach allows for implant placement even in cases where the jawbone has become too weak or resorbed (shrunken) to support regular implants. The zygomatic bone, being denser and stronger than the jawbone in such situations, provides a stable foundation for the implants.
At Erskine Dental we only use Zirconia for our dental bridges.
Zirconia is known to be one of the most highly aesthetic and comfortable “in-mouth” feel of the bridges available. We want to be able to stand behind the reliability of Zirconia as it is known to be stronger and longer lasting than some market alternatives.
Who are Zygomatic Implants For?
- Severe upper jawbone loss: This can be caused by various factors, including long-term tooth loss, gum disease, or previous surgeries.
- Unsuitability for traditional implants: If the jawbone is too weak or lacks sufficient volume for traditional implant placement, zygomatic implants can offer an alternative solution.
Desire for immediate tooth replacement: In some cases, zygomatic implants allow for the placement of fixed dentures on the same day as surgery, eliminating the need for a temporary solution.
Benefits of Zygomatic Implants:
Compared to traditional implants or complex bone grafting procedures, zygomatic implants offer several advantages:
- Immediate function: In many cases, zygomatic implants allow for the immediate placement of fixed dentures, restoring function and aesthetics on the same day as surgery.
- Avoiding bone grafting: By utilising the strong zygomatic bone, zygomatic implants can bypass the need for extensive bone grafting procedures, potentially reducing treatment time and complexity.
- Improved aesthetics and confidence: With a stable foundation and fixed dentures, zygomatic implants can significantly improve your smile aesthetics and boost your confidence.
Limitations and Considerations:
While zygomatic implants offer a valuable solution for specific cases, it’s important to be aware of some limitations and considerations:
- Specialised expertise: Placing zygomatic implants requires specialized training and experience for the dentist, so finding a qualified practitioner is crucial.
Potential for higher cost: Due to the complexity of the procedure and specialised expertise required, zygomatic implants may be more expensive than traditional implants.
The Next Step:
If you’re considering zygomatic implants, or implants of any kind, you should look to schedule a consult with a qualified dental practitioner. During the consultation, your we’ll assess your individual situation, and talk about the suitability of zygomatic implants for your case, explain the treatment process in detail, and address any questions you may have.
Remember, this is just the first part of a comprehensive guide on zygomatic implants. In the next article, we will delve deeper into the treatment process, exploring the steps involved and what to expect during and after the procedure.