Zygomatic implants in South Florida: options for severe bone loss
When the upper jaw has lost a lot of bone, the usual answer for implants is to rebuild it first with a bone graft or sinus lift, then wait months before placing implants. For some patients that path is long, uncertain, or has already been tried without success. Zygomatic implants take a different route. Instead of rebuilding the bone, they reach past it and anchor in the cheekbone, which stays dense even when the jaw below it has thinned.
What zygomatic implants are
A regular dental implant is a titanium post placed in the jawbone. A zygomatic implant is the same idea, but much longer, and it is angled so its tip anchors in the zygomatic bone, the bone that forms your cheek. That bone is thick and dense, so it can hold an implant firmly even when the upper jaw itself has very little bone left.
Zygomatic implants are used only in the upper jaw. They are almost always part of a full-arch treatment, where a few implants together support a fixed bridge of upper teeth:
- Two zygomatic implants (one on each side) combined with regular implants in the front of the jaw, when the front still has enough bone
- Four zygomatic implants (sometimes called "quad zygoma"), when bone is limited across the whole upper jaw
Who is a candidate?
Zygomatic implants are designed for patients who don't have enough upper-jaw bone for regular implants. That usually means:
- Severe bone loss in the upper jaw after many years without teeth or wearing a denture
- Previous bone grafts or sinus lifts that didn't produce enough bone
- Patients who want to avoid the extra surgery and months of healing that large grafts require
- Failing upper teeth or implants where the remaining bone is too limited for a standard full-arch plan
They aren't the first choice for everyone. If you have enough bone, or bone that can be built up predictably, regular implants are simpler. A 3D scan at the consult shows which approach fits your anatomy, and we'll explain why.
What the process looks like
- Consult and 3D imaging: we map your upper jaw, sinuses, and cheekbones, and plan the position of every implant
- Treatment plan: you get a written plan covering the number and type of implants, the final teeth, the timeline, and the cost
- Surgery: placement is done under IV sedation or general anesthesia, so you're comfortable throughout
- Same-day teeth, when stability allows: many patients leave with a fixed temporary bridge attached to the new implants
- Healing: several months while the implants integrate with the bone (this is called osseointegration)
- Final teeth: your restorative dentist or our team places the final fixed bridge
Zygomatic implants vs. bone grafting
Both approaches can work well. The difference is the path to fixed teeth:
- Bone grafting or sinus lift first: rebuilds the jaw, then implants are placed after healing. It often means more than one surgery and a longer wait, but it restores bone volume.
- Zygomatic implants: use the bone you already have in the cheekbone. Often a single surgery, frequently with teeth the same day, and no wait for a graft to mature.
The right choice depends on how much bone you have, your sinus anatomy, your health, and your goals. We'll walk you through both options honestly at the consult.
Recovery
- First week: swelling and bruising around the cheeks and under the eyes is common and peaks in the first few days
- First weeks: soft diet while the implants begin to integrate, then gradually firmer foods as directed
- Sinus care: avoid blowing your nose and sneeze with your mouth open while early healing takes place
- Follow-ups: regular visits to check healing before the final teeth are made
Most patients return to normal daily activities within one to two weeks.
Risks and how we manage them
Zygomatic implants are an established procedure with high success rates in published research, but they are an advanced surgery and are not risk-free. The most commonly reported complication is sinus inflammation or infection. Less common issues include soft-tissue problems around the implants and temporary numbness. Careful 3D planning, precise placement, and close follow-up are how these risks are kept low, and they're why this treatment should be planned and performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Why OMS Associates for zygomatic implants
- Board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon planning and placing every case
- 3D imaging on site for precise planning around the sinuses and cheekbones
- IV sedation and general anesthesia options in the office
- The same surgeon for the consult, the surgery, and every follow-up
- Coordination with your restorative dentist on the final teeth
Frequently asked questions
Are zygomatic implants safe?
Zygomatic implants have been used for decades, and published research reports high long-term success rates. Like any surgery, they carry risks, most commonly sinus problems. A detailed 3D plan and an experienced surgeon are the most important safeguards.
Can I get zygomatic implants if I was told I don't have enough bone for implants?
Often, yes. That situation is exactly what zygomatic implants are designed for. A 3D scan at the consult shows whether your cheekbones and remaining jaw can support them.
Can I get teeth the same day?
Many patients do. When the implants are stable enough at surgery, a fixed temporary bridge is attached the same day or within a few days. We'll tell you at the consult whether that fits your case.
How long do zygomatic implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular maintenance visits, zygomatic implants are designed to be a long-term solution, much like regular implants. The bridge on top may need repairs or replacement over the years.
How much do zygomatic implants cost in South Florida?
Cost depends on the number of implants, whether regular implants are combined with zygomatic ones, and the type of final bridge. We provide a written treatment plan with the full cost at the consult. For the factors that drive implant pricing in general, read our guide to dental implant cost in Florida.
Ready to talk about your options?
If you've been told you don't have enough bone for implants, or a graft didn't work out, a consult with 3D imaging will show what's possible. Call 954-693-0026 (Southwest Ranches) or 786-210-6160 (Kendall and Doral) or use the contact form.