Foothillcenterprocedureszygomaticimplants

Zygomatic implants can be an excellent solution for patients who want the benefits of dental implants but who are not good candidates for the typical implant process.

One of the reasons that dental implants are so durable and are able to offer the functionality of your original teeth is that they form a strong bond with the bone in your jaw. However:

  • Not every patient has enough bone to create this bond.
  • Some patients have other anatomical challenges that prevent this approach.

Zygomatic implants overcome these issues, allowing you to have dental implants in the upper jaw without requiring extensive bone grafting.

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Instead of attaching to the jaw bone, zygomatic implants anchor to the zygomatic bone: the cheek bone just lateral to the eye. They enter through the sinus, so these implants tend to be longer than the typical implant.

As a patient of Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery:

  • You should recognize no difference in the look, feel, function, or surgical experience of zygomatic implants.
  • You will be under general anesthesia so that you stay comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
  • You can have the procedure immediately rather than having to build up the bone in the jaw with grafts.

Meet Dr. Christopher Chan

Dr. Chan is a dual-degree, board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with advanced training in dental implants, full arch restoration, and bone grafting.

Since 1953, Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery has delivered trusted results. Dr. Chan continues this legacy, offering local and truly personalized care. 

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The Benefits of Zygomatic Implants

The most significant advantage that zygomatic implants offer is that they are graftless. Choosing this approach means avoiding a series of time-consuming and costly procedures to build up the bone in the jaw, which may not be an option for some patients.

Zygomatic implants have no recovery or uncovering procedure. You can expect to benefit from the same features that dental implants offer:

  • A strong foundation that restores full functionality to your bite.
  • Aesthetic improvement to missing or damaged teeth.
  • Durable results that should last for years.

Are Zygomatic Dental Implants Less Painful Than Bone Grafts?

Zygomatic implants offer a powerful alternative for patients with severe upper jaw bone loss who want to avoid bone grafting. Instead of placing implants in the upper jawbone, Dr. Chan anchors them directly into the cheekbones (zygoma), which provides strong support without the need for more invasive procedures.

Because grafting is not required, patients often experience less pain, faster healing, and shorter treatment timelines. In many cases, a provisional prosthesis can be attached the same day. While mild discomfort is normal, most patients find the entire process far more comfortable than traditional graft-based implant surgery.

The result? A stable, natural-looking smile restored more quickly, with less downtime and fewer surgical steps.

Zygomatic Implants FAQs

Zygomatic implants are longer dental implants that anchor into the zygomatic bone, also known as the cheekbone, instead of the upper jaw. This approach allows patients with severe upper jaw bone loss to receive implants without bone grafting. At Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Pasadena, Dr. Christopher Chan places these implants under general anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience while providing a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.

Zygomatic implants are designed for patients who have significant bone loss in the upper jaw or cannot undergo traditional bone grafting. If you have been told you are not a candidate for standard dental implants, zygomatic implants may be appropriate. Dr. Chan evaluates your bone structure, sinus anatomy, and overall health using advanced imaging to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.

If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for traditional dental implants because of bone loss in your upper jaw, zygomatic implants could be a great alternative. These implants are specifically designed to anchor in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone, so no bone grafting is required for many patients. Dr. Chan uses advanced imaging to carefully evaluate your bone structure, sinus anatomy, and overall health, so he can create a treatment plan that’s safe, effective, and tailored just for you.

Recovery is often faster than traditional grafting procedures because zygomatic implants are placed in a single surgery without the need for bone graft healing. Many patients are able to receive a provisional prosthesis immediately and resume normal activities within a few days. Dr. Chan provides detailed postoperative instructions and ongoing follow-up to support a smooth recovery.

Yes. Even though the implant is anchored in the cheekbone, the restoration looks and feels like a natural tooth. You should not notice any difference in the final appearance, bite strength, or comfort compared to traditional implants. The restored teeth are designed to blend seamlessly with your smile, and Dr. Chan ensures proper placement and alignment for reliable long-term results.

Are Zygomatic Dental Implants Right for You?

If you are looking to get zygomatic implants, let us put your concerns to rest. We utilize the most advanced techniques, and our trained staff has the experience to perform the implant swiftly and effectively. If you live in Pasadena, zygomatic implants could be the answer to restoring your mouth. To learn more about zygomatic implants, schedule your consultation with Foothill Center for Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Pasadena at (626) 792-3161.