If you’ve considered getting dental implants but have been told that your jawbone deterioration in your upper arch was too severe to make you a suitable candidate for treatment, you may feel discouraged or have completely given up hope for a permanent smile restoration solution. But the good news is that you may still qualify for a second chance with the help of zygomatic dental implants. Here’s a closer look at these life-changing prosthetics, and how they can replace your teeth even if you suffer from extensive bone resorption that disqualifies you from getting traditional implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the world’s only permanent tooth restoration method. Using posts made of titanium or zirconia, they permanently secure to your jawbone so a prosthetic tooth, bridge, or denture can be attached. This allows you to eat a full diet and smile with confidence, without worrying about dentures slipping or changing shape, needing to alter healthy teeth, or needing to be removed for cleaning and soaking. In fact, they can only be taken out by a dentist!
What are Zygomatic Dental Implants?
Traditional dental implants are ideal for patients with missing permanent teeth but sufficient jawbone strength. For those who don’t meet this criteria, zygomatic dental implants can give you a second chance to restore your smile. These prosthetics are surgically attached at an angle to your zygoma (cheek) bone.
Unlike standard dental implants that typically range between 10 to 15mm long, zygomatic dental implants can be up to 50mm long, ensuring they reach high enough to get a secure grip. Best of all, because they’re so long, zygomatic dental implants eliminate the need for sinus lifts or bone grafting, and in most cases you can even begin wearing a temporary prosthesis the very same day you get them!
The Zygomatic Dental Implant Treatment Process
To get zygomatic dental implants, you’ll first need a consultation with your dentist. Once approved, your surgery will be scheduled. On the day of surgery, your dentist will numb your mouth, attach the posts, and then secure your temporary prosthetics. You can then return home and begin using your new teeth immediately. You will likely experience some swelling and bruising under the eyes. Discomfort during the healing process is about the same as a bone graft procedure, and most patients find relief with over-the-counter pain medication is more than sufficient. You should plan on limiting physical activity and eating a soft diet for the next three to five days but can gradually expand your food choices after that.
Once your implants have successfully completed osseointegration (permanently fusing with the jawbone) you will be ready for your final restoration, in the form of a crown, bridge, or denture. Depending on your choice, these could last for 20 years or even a lifetime.
Remember, while jawbone deterioration may disqualify you from traditional dental implants, zygomatic dental implants offer beautiful alternative that will allow you to enjoy your new smile faster than other options! To learn more about this treatment and to see if your smile qualifies, speak to your dentist today.
About Our Practice
At Conestoga Oral Surgery, we are proud to offer zygomatic dental implants. If you are ready to restore your smile but have been told you don’t qualify for treatment because of excessive jawbone deterioration, these durable, lifelike restorations can give you a second chance. To learn more about your tooth replacement options, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 717-394-3033.