Choosing The Right Implant For Severe Bone Loss
Dental implants have revolutionized the field of dentistry, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. While traditional dental implants are commonly used, there are cases where alternative approaches are necessary.
Two alternative implant options are zygomatic and pterygoid implants. These two implants are similarly longer than traditional implants allowing them to be placed into the upper jawbone and cheekbone if the jawbone is no longer an option.
While the zygomatic and pterygoid implants are similar, they each have different goals and placements. It is important to research or talk to a Mansfield dentist to find out which implant is right for you.
What Is a Zygomatic Implant?
Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of dental implant designed for individuals with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Traditional dental implants require a sufficient amount of jawbone for successful placement. However, in cases where the jawbone is insufficient or severely dissolved away, zygomatic implants offer an alternative solution.
The zygomatic implant is designed to be longer than conventional implants to reach and anchor in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) rather than the jawbone. It has a screw-shaped or cylindrical structure, resembling the shape of a natural tooth root.
Mansfield dentists anchor the zygomatic implant in the cheekbone. This approach bypasses the need for bone grafting procedures and allows for the placement of dental implants in areas where traditional implants may not be possible.
Benefits Of Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implants have revolutionized the field of implantology, offering numerous benefits and transforming the lives of countless individuals with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Some of these benefits include:
- No Need for Bone Grafting: Zygomatic implants eliminate the need for time-consuming and invasive bone grafting procedures, making them a viable option for patients with significant jawbone loss.
- Fewer Surgical Procedures: By avoiding bone grafting, the overall treatment timeline by a Mansfield dentist is shortened as fewer surgeries are required.
- Immediate Function: In many cases, zygomatic implants can provide immediate functionality, allowing patients to receive their new teeth sooner.
- Stable and Reliable: Zygomatic implants offer excellent stability and durability, enabling patients to enjoy the same benefits as traditional dental implants.
- Improved Quality of Life: By restoring the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently, zygomatic implants can significantly enhance a patient’s quality of life.
Considerations For Zygomatic Implants
While zygomatic implants offer numerous advantages, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Anatomical Limitations: Not all patients are suitable candidates for zygomatic implants due to anatomical limitations or variations. A thorough assessment and consultation with a Mansfield dentist will help determine the best treatment approach for each individual case.
- Cost: Zygomatic implants may be more expensive than traditional dental implants due to the complexity of the procedure and the need for specialized equipment.
- Limited Availability: Zygomatic implants require specialized training and equipment, which may limit their availability in certain regions or dental practices. Patients may need to travel to access a skilled implant dentist with experience.
What Is a Pterygoid Implant?
Pterygoid implants are another alternative for individuals with insufficient jawbone in the posterior upper jaw area. They provide a solution for patients who are not suitable candidates for conventional implants or bone grafting procedures.
The titanium implant is designed to mimic the shape of a natural tooth root and is typically screw-shaped or cylindrical. This design allows for stability and promotes connection with the surrounding bone providing a secure foundation for the dental prosthesis.
Mansfield dentists place the pterygoid implant in the pterygoid bone, a dense area located near the maxillary sinus. This positioning allows for stable anchorage and the successful placement of dental prosthetics.
Benefits Of a Pterygoid Implant
Like the Zygomatic implant, Pterygoid implants have been groundbreaking in the dental field. They have provided many benefits for those eligible:
- Avoidance of Bone Grafting: Similar to zygomatic implants, pterygoid implants eliminate the need for bone grafting, providing a more efficient treatment option.
- Restoration of Posterior Teeth: Pterygoid implants enable the restoration of missing teeth in the posterior upper jaw area, allowing patients to regain their chewing ability.
- Restoration of Oral Function: Pterygoid implants enable individuals with severe bone loss to regain functional oral abilities with confidence like chew, smile and speak.
- Avoidance of Sinus Lift Surgery: Both zygomatic and pterygoid implants can eliminate the need for sinus lift surgery in cases where the maxillary sinus is enlarged or unfavorably positioned, reducing complexity of the procedure and minimizing patient discomfort.
Considerations For Pterygoid Implants
A Mansfield dentist will talk about the benefits of pterygoid implants, but they may also suggest some considerations:
- Specialized Expertise: As with zygomatic implants, pterygoid implant placement requires specialized training and experience. Consultation with an experienced implantologist is crucial.
- Surgical Complexity: Pterygoid implant placement is a complex procedure that may require more extensive surgical intervention than traditional implants.
- Careful Treatment Planning: Thorough evaluation and treatment planning are necessary to ensure proper implant positioning and optimal outcomes.
Is a Zygomatic Implant Or Pterygoid Implant Right For You?
Both zygomatic and pterygoid implants are very similar and offer solutions for severe bone loss in the upper jaw, but they differ in their location, anchorage, and surgical approach.
While both options have their unique benefits, it is essential to consult with an experienced Mansfield dentist to determine the most suitable choice based on your specific needs and circumstances. With their expertise and guidance, you can make an informed decision and achieve a beautiful, functional smile that positively impacts your oral health and quality of life.
Contact Your Leading Mansfield Dentist Today For Help!
If you are looking to get a zygomatic or pterygoid implant, Dr. Kiser at Advanced Dentistry & Dental Implant Center can help! As a trained dentist and dental implant specialist, he will be sure to provide the care you need.
We want to hear from you and see how we can help! Contact us today with our online form.
Advanced Dentistry & Dental Implant Center
1221 S. Trimble Road, Buidling A
Mansfield, OH 44907
Tel: (419) 756-2880
Email: [email protected]
