As a dentist, I always aim to provide the best possible treatment options for my patients. When it comes to dental implants, there are different types of implants available. One of these is the zygomatic implant. In this blog post, I will discuss when I consider zygomatic implants for my patients.
Zygomatic implants are an excellent option for patients who have severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Traditional dental implants require a certain amount of healthy bone tissue to support them. However, patients who have been missing teeth for a long time or who have suffered from gum disease may not have enough bone tissue for traditional implants. This is where zygomatic implants come in.
Zygomatic implants are longer than traditional implants and are anchored into the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone. This provides more support and stability for the implant, even when there is significant bone loss in the upper jaw. Zygomatic implants are an alternative to bone grafting, which is a surgical procedure that involves taking bone tissue from another part of the body and grafting it onto the jawbone to provide more support for traditional implants.
So, when do I choose zygomatic implants for my patients? Here are some scenarios where zygomatic implants may be the best option:
Severe bone loss: If my patient has lost a significant amount of bone tissue in the upper jaw, zygomatic implants can provide the necessary support for dental restorations.
Failed bone grafting: In some cases, bone grafting may not be successful or may take a long time to heal. Zygomatic implants can be a viable alternative in these cases.
Multiple missing teeth: Zygomatic implants can support multiple dental restorations, such as bridges or dentures, without the need for additional bone grafting.
Time constraints: Traditional implant procedures can take several months to complete, as the bone tissue needs time to fuse with the implant. Zygomatic implants can often be placed in a single appointment, reducing the overall treatment time.
It's important to note that zygomatic implants are not suitable for every patient. A thorough evaluation of the patient's oral health, medical history, and overall health is necessary to determine if zygomatic implants are the best option. Additionally, the procedure for placing zygomatic implants requires specialised training and expertise, so it's essential to seek out a dentist who is experienced in this technique.
In conclusion, zygomatic implants can be an excellent solution for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. By providing more support and stability than traditional implants, zygomatic implants can give patients the ability to restore their smile and enjoy improved oral function. If you think you may be a candidate for zygomatic implants, I encourage you to schedule a consultation with me to discuss your options further.
Comments