I have always envied those around me who seem to always have perfect smiles without even trying, because I feel like I was born with "bad teeth." While my teeth are in great shape now, it is only because I take great care to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning and maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. While I used to get a lot of cavities, even though I thought I was doing "everything right" to keep them away, I am proud to say that I have been cavity-free for a couple of years now! I put a lot of research into what daily habits can wreak havoc on my teeth, and I thought it would be a shame not to share what has helped me with others who need the advice. I plan to post many oral health tips on my new blog!
Sometimes, people who desire an implant restoration are unaware that there are multiple types of dental implants. Conventional dental implants are often suitable for patients who have sufficient jawbone mass to accommodate the devices. However, some people suffer jawbone atrophy because of tooth loss.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone does not continue to receive the stimulation needed to support the development of enough new bone cells to prevent the bone from shrinking. As you eat, the pressure that is experienced by the tooth is transferred to the jawbone to serve as stimulation.
If you have insufficient bone in your jaw for a conventional dental implant, your dentist may prescribe a zygomatic implant. Here are a few questions and answers about this special kind of appliance:
What is a zygomatic implant?
A zygomatic implant is a dental implant that is designed to be installed in the cheekbone, instead of the jawbone. The implant is a bit longer than a conventional implant because it must reach further up into the face.
Are zygomatic implants available for both palates?
Since it is designed to be positioned in the cheekbone, a zygomatic implant is only used for the upper palate or maxilla.
Aren't bone grafts used when there is insufficient jawbone material?
Bone grafts are sometimes used to increase jawbone mass. However, a dental implant may fail if a bone graft is unsuccessful. In such an instance, a zygomatic implant is often a more suitable option. It reduces treatment time by eliminating the need for a bone graft and its associated healing time.
Are there other reasons beyond poor jawbone density to choose a zygomatic implant?
A zygomatic implant can also help you avoid a sinus lift or other sinus augmentation. Additionally, it can be used if a traditional implant has failed.
Can zygomatic implants be used as supports for other teeth-replacement options, such as dentures?
Zygomatic implants can be used for single-tooth restorations or as supports for other devices. They can help stabilize dental bridges or implant-supported dentures.
Can zygomatic implants be used if there are other traditional implants in the upper palate?
If you already have other conventional implants in place, you can still have zygomatic implants installed. In some instances, when an appliance will be attached to the implants, multiple implants will be needed. In those cases, the zygomatic implants are typically placed in the rear of the mouth, and traditional implants are placed in the front to secure the device in place.
To learn more about zygomatic implants and to determine if they are suitable for you, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area (like those at Pine Lake Dental Group).
Share4 October 2016
