Advanced Dental
Implants

An advanced option for severe upper-jaw bone loss

Zygomatic implants are specialized dental implants that obtain support from the cheekbone, known as the zygoma. They are longer than conventional dental implants and may be considered when the upper jaw cannot provide sufficient support for a traditional implant-supported restoration.

Depending on the remaining bone and the planned prosthesis, zygomatic implants may be combined with conventional implants or used in a configuration involving multiple zygomatic implants.

Who May Be a Candidate?

Zygomatic implants may be considered for patients who:

Have severe bone loss in the upper jaw.

Have experienced unsuccessful bone grafting or previous implant treatment.

Have certain upper-jaw defects following trauma or surgery.

Need an alternative to extensive bone reconstruction, when clinically appropriate.

Suitability depends on the anatomy of the upper jaw and cheekbones, sinus health, general health, and the requirements of the final restoration.

Potential Benefits

Support for fixed teeth: May make fixed rehabilitation possible when conventional implants alone are unsuitable.

An alternative to extensive grafting: May reduce the need for staged bone reconstruction in selected cases.

Earlier temporary rehabilitation: When adequate implant stability is achieved, a fixed temporary restoration may be possible shortly after surgery.

Improved function and appearance: Provides support for a restoration designed to improve chewing and smile aesthetics.

Can I Receive Teeth on the Day of Surgery?

Some patients qualify for immediate loading, which allows a fixed temporary restoration to be attached on the day of surgery or shortly afterward.

This depends on implant stability, bone conditions, the design of the restoration, and surgical findings. Immediate teeth cannot be guaranteed before the clinical requirements have been confirmed. The final prosthesis is provided after the appropriate healing and assessment period.

A framework designed around your remaining bone

Custom subperiosteal implants—sometimes referred to as mucoperiosteal implants—are patient-specific frameworks that may be considered for selected cases of severe upper- or lower-jaw bone loss.

Unlike conventional implants, which are inserted into the jawbone, a subperiosteal framework is positioned over the bone, beneath the periosteum, the tissue covering its surface. The framework is secured with fixation screws, while support posts extend through the gums to connect it to the dental restoration.

Modern frameworks are typically manufactured from titanium using computer-assisted design and three-dimensional printing.

Who May Be a Candidate?

Custom subperiosteal implants may be considered for patients who:

Have advanced bone loss that limits conventional implant placement.

Would otherwise require extensive bone-reconstruction procedures.

Have experienced previous implant or reconstructive treatment failure.

Need an individualized alternative after other treatment options have been assessed.

The amount and distribution of remaining bone, soft-tissue health, medical history, and ability to maintain oral hygiene are important factors in treatment selection.

How Is the Framework Designed?

A three-dimensional scan is used to create a digital model of your jaw. Your implant framework is then individually designed and manufactured to match the contours of your remaining bone and support the planned dental restoration.

Planning also considers fixation points, the position of the support posts, soft-tissue coverage, and access for cleaning.

Your Treatment Schedule: Three Trips

First Trip: Consultation and Three-Dimensional Imaging

Your first visit includes a comprehensive assessment and the imaging needed to evaluate your remaining bone and plan treatment.

Once your suitability and treatment plan have been confirmed, these records are used to design and manufacture your personalized implant framework. Manufacturing takes approximately 6 weeks, as the framework is custom-made to fit your individual bone anatomy.

Second Trip: Surgical Placement

Once your custom framework is ready, you return for surgical placement. The framework is positioned and secured according to the treatment plan, and the surrounding gum tissue is carefully adapted.

You will receive postoperative instructions and a follow-up plan to monitor healing.

Third Trip: Placement of Your Final Teeth

After adequate healing has been confirmed, you return for the fitting and placement of your definitive dental prosthesis.

Your final teeth are assessed for fit, appearance, bite, and access for cleaning. The timing of this trip is determined by your healing progress and restorative needs.

Additional appointments may be required depending on your clinical circumstances.

Potential Benefits

Patient-specific design: The framework is created around your individual jaw anatomy.

An alternative for complex bone loss: May offer a rehabilitation option when conventional implants are unsuitable.

Potential reduction in grafting procedures: Extensive bone augmentation may be avoided in selected cases.

Support for dental rehabilitation: Provides a foundation for a prosthesis planned to restore function and appearance.