Zygomatic implants: an option when upper-jaw bone is very limited

When most or all of the upper teeth have been lost, the bone of the upper jaw can shrink considerably, and the sinuses can take up much of the space where implants would normally go. Conventional implants may then not be possible without extensive bone grafting. Zygomatic implants are much longer than standard implants and pass from the mouth towards the zygomatic bone (the cheekbone), which is dense and can provide firm anchorage.

They are usually used to support a fixed full-arch bridge in the upper jaw. Depending on the bone available, a plan might combine two zygomatic implants with conventional implants at the front of the jaw, or use four zygomatic implants when there is very little bone anywhere in the upper jaw (often called quad zygoma). Where stability allows, many clinicians fit a provisional fixed bridge soon after surgery.

This is complex surgery close to the sinus and the eye socket, and it is usually carried out under sedation or general anaesthesia by a surgeon with specific training in the technique. Alternatives include bone grafting followed by conventional implants, shorter or angled implants where some bone remains, an implant-retained overdenture or a conventional denture. A responsible clinician will explain why they recommend zygomatic implants for you rather than one of these options.

Zygomatic implants may be considered for adults with severe bone loss in the upper jaw, often after unsuccessful grafting or failed implants, or where extensive grafting is not desirable. A dentist and surgeon will need to assess you in person with a CBCT scan before anyone can say whether they are appropriate.

• Most or all of your upper teeth are missing or have been advised for removal.
• Imaging shows too little upper-jaw bone for conventional implants without major grafting.
• Previous grafting or implants in the upper jaw have not been successful.
• Your sinuses are healthy, or any sinus disease has been assessed and treated.
• You are fit for longer surgery under sedation or general anaesthesia, and can keep up careful cleaning and regular reviews.

Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes, some medications, previous radiotherapy to the head or neck, active sinus disease and heavy grinding can all affect suitability or outcome. Some people may be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist before surgery. This page is general information and not a diagnosis.

1. 01

   Remote review of your records

   You share any existing scans, photographs and your full medical history, including any sinus problems. A clinic can give initial thoughts, but nothing is final until you have been examined.

2. 02

   Examination, CBCT and surgical planning

   The surgeon examines you and studies a CBCT scan of the upper jaw, sinuses and cheekbones. Planning is often done digitally, and the plan, type of anaesthesia, timings and costs are then confirmed.

3. 03

   Extractions and implant surgery

   Any remaining upper teeth are removed where planned, and the zygomatic implants, with any conventional implants, are placed in one session, usually under sedation or general anaesthesia.

4. 04

   Provisional bridge

   Where the implants are stable enough, a provisional fixed bridge is often fitted within a few days. A soft diet is usually advised while you heal.

5. 05

   Healing at home

   The implants, gums and surrounding tissues are given time to heal, often several months. You will usually return home during this period and should report any sinus symptoms promptly.

6. 06

   Final bridge

   On a later trip the dentist takes new scans or impressions, may try in the design and fits the definitive bridge, adjusting the bite and showing you how to clean around it.

Zygomatic implant treatment typically involves at least two trips: one for surgery and provisional teeth, and one for the final bridge after healing.

The first trip is usually the longer one, as it includes pre-operative checks, surgery, recovery and fitting the provisional bridge. The second, often several months later, is for the definitive bridge and may involve several appointments.

If you need sinus treatment first, if the implants are not stable enough for immediate teeth, or if complications occur, the plan may change. Recovery from longer surgery under anaesthesia can also affect how soon you are comfortable to travel. Ask the clinic to set out every expected appointment in writing.

What can change the timeline

• Whether sinus problems need to be assessed or treated first
• The number of zygomatic and conventional implants
• Whether the implants are stable enough for same-week provisional teeth
• Recovery after surgery under sedation or general anaesthesia
• Healing time before the final bridge
• General health and smoking

Zygomatic treatment is highly individual, so a single figure would not be meaningful. These are the main factors behind a clinic's quote.

• The number of zygomatic and conventional implants
• The type of anaesthesia and the hospital or theatre setting
• Imaging, digital planning and any surgical guides
• Extractions and any additional procedures
• Provisional bridge and whether it is included
• Final bridge material
• Your travel and accommodation, including any extra nights for recovery

We do not publish prices on this page. Each clinic sets its own fees and provides an indicative range, which can only be confirmed once a dentist has examined you and reviewed your scans. Ask for a written, itemised plan before you book anything, and check what is and is not included.

Zygomatic implants are an established option for severe bone loss, but the surgery is more complex than conventional implant surgery. Your surgeon should explain these risks in relation to your own case before you consent.

• Sinus problems, including sinusitis, are among the most commonly reported complications and may need treatment with medication or further surgery, occasionally including removal of an implant.
• An opening can form between the mouth and the sinus (an oro-antral communication), which may need surgical repair.
• Gum and soft-tissue problems around the implants, such as inflammation or recession, can occur and may make cleaning harder.
• The implants pass close to the eye socket and to nerves of the face. Injury to these structures is uncommon, but it is a reason the surgery must be carefully planned and carried out by an experienced surgeon.
• An implant may fail to integrate or may fail later; because the bridge relies on a small number of implants, this can affect the whole arch.
• Swelling, bruising around the cheeks and eyes, discomfort and nosebleeds are common after surgery, and general anaesthesia carries its own risks.
• Bridges can chip, crack or loosen and may need repair. Follow your surgeon's guidance on when it is safe to fly.

Zygomatic implants need careful long-term maintenance, and follow-up may be harder to arrange at home than for conventional implants.

• Follow the post-operative instructions on medication, diet and sinus care, including avoiding hard nose-blowing if advised.
• Clean under and around the bridge every day using the tools your clinician recommends.
• Attend regular professional reviews; the bridge may need to be removed periodically by a dentist for cleaning and checks.
• Seek prompt advice for facial pain or pressure, a blocked or runny nose on one side, a bad taste, or air or fluid passing between the mouth and nose.
• Before you book, ask whether a clinician near your home can manage these implants, bring full records home, and agree in writing who handles complications.

No verified partner clinics list this treatment yet. Start an assessment and your coordinator will tell you what's available.