Zygomatic versus Traditional Dental Implants - Comparing Your Options

Posted on 4/1/2025 by Beaverton Oral Surgeons

Zygomatic image from Beaverton Oral Surgeons in Hillsboro, OR

Missing teeth can be a major inconvenience, affecting your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Fortunately, dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking solution. However, with different types of implants available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This article will compare two popular options: zygomatic and traditional dental implants.

What are Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants are longer and sturdier than traditional implants. They are anchored in the zygomatic bone, a strong cheekbone located behind the upper jaw. This unique placement allows for implant placement even when there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw to support traditional implants.

When are Zygomatic Implants Used?

Zygomatic implants are ideal for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw, typically caused by:

•	Periodontal disease: This gum infection destroys the bone that supports your teeth.
•	Trauma: Accidents or injuries can cause significant bone loss.
•	Congenital defects: Some individuals are born with insufficient bone in the upper jaw.

By bypassing the areas of bone loss and anchoring in the zygomatic bone, zygomatic implants offer a viable solution for patients who might otherwise not be candidates for traditional implants.

Advantages of Zygomatic Implants

•	Immediate loading: In many cases, zygomatic implants can support immediate dentures, allowing patients to regain function and aesthetics on the same day as surgery.
•	Bone grafting not always required: Avoiding bone grafts reduces treatment time and cost.
•	Suitable for severe bone loss: Zygomatic implants offer a solution for patients who were previously not candidates for implants.

Disadvantages of Zygomatic Implants

•	Higher cost: Zygomatic implants typically cost more than traditional implants due to their specialized design and surgical complexity.
•	Longer surgery time: The procedure for placing zygomatic implants takes longer than traditional implants.
•	Potential complications: As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications such as infection, nerve damage, and sinus perforation.

Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants are the more established option, typically made of titanium and surgically placed in the jawbone. They require sufficient bone density to ensure proper anchoring and long-term success.

Advantages of Traditional Implants

•	Well-established procedure: Traditional implants have a long history of success and a predictable long-term outcome.
•	Lower cost: Traditional implants generally cost less than zygomatic implants.
•	Less invasive surgery: The surgical procedure for traditional implants is typically less complex and time-consuming than for zygomatic implants.

Disadvantages of Traditional Implants

•	May require bone grafting: If there is insufficient bone density, bone grafting procedures may be necessary, adding to the cost and treatment time.
•	Delayed function: Traditional implants require a healing period of several months before they can support dentures or crowns. This means patients will be without teeth during this time.
•	Not suitable for severe bone loss: Traditional implants are not an option for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.

Conclusion

Both zygomatic and traditional dental implants offer effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs, bone quality, and budget. After a thorough examination and discussion with your dentist or oral surgeon, you can decide which type of implant is right for you.

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400 E Main St Ste 120, Hillsboro, OR 97123
Hillsboro, OR 97123-4163
(503) 646-7101

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Beaverton, OR 97003
(503) 646-7101

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Beaverton Oral Surgeons, 3925 SW 153rd Dr. Suite # 100, Beaverton, OR 97006 + (503) 646-7101 + beavertonoralsurgeons.com + 4/25/2025 + Page Keywords: Oral Surgery Beaverton +