All You Need to Know About Zygomatic & Pterygoid Dental Implants

Missing teeth can feel like a daily challenge—wondering what you can eat, how to smile confidently, and whether your oral health is at risk. For those dealing with severe bone loss, the question often arises: “Are zygomatic implants safe compared to other dental solutions?” or “What can I eat after zygomatic and pterygoid implants?”

The good news is, both options are specifically designed to address these concerns. They restore function, improve aesthetics, and boost your confidence, all while providing a safe and reliable alternative to traditional methods. Let’s explore what makes these implants so unique, why they’re safe, and how they can they transform your quality of life.

What is the difference between zygomatic and traditional implants?

The key difference between zygomatic implants and traditional implants lies in their suitability for patients with varying bone conditions. Traditional implants are inserted into the jawbone and are best suited for those with sufficient bone density, though they often require additional procedures like bone grafts, extending the treatment timeline. In contrast, zygomatic implants are much longer and are anchored into the zygomatic bone, making them ideal for patients with severe upper jawbone resorption.

Still, the zygomatic dental implants recovery time is quite similar to that of traditional dental implants, although patients may experience slightly more bruising due to the more invasive nature of the procedure. This bruising is a normal part of the healing process and usually subsides within a few days to a few weeks. 

What is the difference between pterygoid implants and zygomatic implants?

When it comes to these two, the primary differences lies in zygomatic and pterygoid implant placement:

• Zygomatic implants are secured into the zygomatic bone, or cheekbone. The zygoma, as it’s called in medical terms, is a strong, prominent bone located above the maxilla (upper jaw). When the maxilla lacks sufficient bone to support traditional implants, the zygoma provides a stable foundation for zygomatic dental implants. These implants are most often recommended for patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw, offering a reliable solution where other methods may not be viable.
• Pterygoid implants are placed in the pterygoid plate of the sphenoid bone, found at the back of the upper jaw. They help stabilize the back portion of the jaw, making them especially useful for full-arch dental restorations. In many cases, they work alongside zygomatic implants to ensure a secure and reliable foundation for upper jaw prosthetics.

Who is a candidate for Zygomatic and Pterygoid implants?

Candidates for zygomatic and pterygoid implants are those who have experienced severe upper jawbone loss, often after years of wearing dentures. While upper dentures can initially provide aesthetic and functional benefits, they do not stop the natural shrinkage of the jawbone. Over time, this bone loss causes dentures to become loose and uncomfortable, sometimes to the point of being unwearable.

What are the benefits of zygomatic and pterygoid implants?

Both options allow patients to move from uncomfortable, ill-fitting dentures to a secure, fixed dental bridge in as little as one day. Though they require advanced expertise from the doctor, they provide patients with the freedom to live confidently with stable, non-removable teeth. This means enjoying a wide range of foods without the fear of discomfort or the embarrassment of dentures slipping out.

Benefits of zygomatic implants

• No need for bone grafting: Perfect for patients with significant bone loss, eliminating the need for additional procedures.
• High success rate: Anchored in the dense zygomatic bone, they offer exceptional stability and long-term reliability.
• Quickly restores functionality: Patients can regain oral function much faster than with traditional implants that require bone grafting.

Benefits of pterygoid implants

• Anchorage in dense bone: These implants use the strong posterior maxillary structures, avoiding the need for bone grafting.
• Enhanced support for full-arch prosthetics: They provide critical stability for full-mouth restorations by securing the back portion of the jaw.
• Minimally invasive: They bypass the need for complex surgeries like sinus lifts, simplifying the process for patients.

How long do zygomatic and pterygoid implants last?

These innovative solutions allow patients to reclaim their confidence and enjoy life with permanent teeth securely anchored in place. Designed for durability, these implants can last at least 15 to 20 years, and with proper care, they often remain functional for a lifetime.

What is the success rate of pterygoid and zygomatic implants?

The success rates for zygomatic and pterygoid implants are remarkably high, making them reliable options even in complex cases. Zygomatic implants boast a long-term success rate of 94% to 98%, while pterygoid implants show similarly strong outcomes, ranging from 92% to 98%, depending on individual factors and surgical techniques.

How to care for pterygoid and zygomatic implants?

Caring for zygomatic and pterygoid implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Here’s a simple routine to keep them in excellent condition:

• Remove food particles: Use soft toothpicks to clean food lodged around bridges, dentures, or implants, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
• Floss effectively: Super floss, designed for implants, helps clean plaque and bacteria from tight spaces and beneath the gumline. Flossing before bed is essential to prevent bacteria from building up overnight.
• Rinse thoroughly: Finish your routine with a non-alcoholic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria, freshen your breath, and clean areas like your tongue, cheeks, and beneath the bridge.
• Schedule check-ups: Regular dental visits are crucial for professional cleanings and monitoring the health of your implants and overall oral hygiene.

What is the cost of zygomatic and pterygoid implants?

Pterygoid and zygomatic implants often cost more than traditional implants because of the procedure’s complexity and the expertise required to perform it. However, it’s important to consider the overall value, factoring in patient comfort, shorter recovery times, and high long-term success rates when deciding on the best treatment option.

Who provides high-quality zygomatic and pterygoid implants in Scripps Ranch?

Bad teeth got you worried? Dr. Tsvetov is here to help! Whether you’re unsure about your treatment options, wondering if dental implants are right for you, or concerned about how painful the procedure might be, he’s here to put your mind at ease. Serving Scripps Ranch and nearby areas, our entire team is committed to helping you regain your confidence with a smile you’ll love. Contact us today to learn more and get started!