How Long Do Zygomatic Dental Implants Last
Zygomatic dental implants are a great alternative for patients who are unable or do not want to undergo bone grafting before traditional implants can be placed. Zygomatic implants are attached to the cheekbones instead of the upper jaw bone and are significantly longer than standard implants and are able to have the implant restoration placed immediately instead of six months later.
Patients who qualify for zygomatic implants have lost a significant amount of bone structure in their upper jaw due to bone resorption which can occur due to age or severe decay. Sometimes, a patient does not have enough jaw bone structure to support a dental implant due to bone resorption and/or pneumatization of the sinus.
Bone resorption is when the bone mass is absorbed and broken down by the body. Osteoclast cells are responsible for the breakdown of bone minerals, releasing calcium and phosphorus into the bloodstream. This happens when the body has insufficient calcium from the individual’s diet and the breakdown happens faster than the body can regenerate new bone.
Pneumatization of the sinus is the expansion of the sinus cavity. This can occur due to heredity, nasal mucous membrane pneumatization, bone density, sinus surgeries, growth hormones, air pressure within the cavity of the sinus and age related problems.
Minimal bone height for the placement of a standard implant in the back area of the upper jaw should be about 10 millimeters to ensure implant success. When there is not enough bone structure available, bone grafting procedures and sinus lift procedures may be performed to increase the volume of bone. Bone grafting procedures in the jaws have a few disadvantages including prolonged treatment time, restriction of denture wear, and graft rejection. A bone graft can add an additional two to three months of healing time before an implant can even be placed.
How long do zygomatic implants last?
Zygomatic dental implants are a great way to restore missing teeth for patients who do not have enough structure to support implants. Long-term studies of the zygomatic implants show a high success rate with minimal complications. The cumulative survival rate of zygomatic implants is about 96%, which is the same as traditional implants placed in the jaw bone.
Are there any complications associated with zygomatic implants?
No invasive surgery is completely risk-free but the most common complication associated with zygomatic implants is sinusitis. Your doctor will evaluate the sinuses as they examine your mouth and facial structure using x-rays for a complete picture of what they have to work with. Other less common complications with zygomatic implants may include infraorbital nerve paresthesia, which is a pins and needles sensation, oro-sinusal fistula, or perforation of the orbit.
Your doctors will evaluate your case to make sure that the zygomatic implants are the best treatment option for you. Discuss all of your questions and concerns with your doctor before any treatment begins.