Zygoma and Pterygoid Implants

Zygoma and pterygoid implants are advanced surgical procedures used when there’s severe bone loss in the upper jaw and standard implants aren’t possible.

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Zygomatic Implant Placement:

1. Anesthesia

   • Typically done under IV sedation or general anesthesia for patient comfort.

2. Incision & Exposure

   • A flap is made in the gum to expose the upper jawbone and lateral sinus wall.

3. Angled Drilling

   • A channel is precisely drilled through or along the sinus cavity toward the zygomatic bone.

   • The drill must avoid the sinus membrane or carefully pass alongside or through it with minimal disruption.

4. Implant Placement

   • A long titanium implant (30–55 mm) is inserted at an angle and anchored securely into the dense zygomatic bone.

5. Closure

   • Gums are sutured over or around the implants, and healing begins.

   • In many cases, a temporary full-arch prosthesis is attached the same day (immediate loading).

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Pterygoid Implant Placement:

1. Anesthesia

   • Usually IV sedation or general anesthesia due to the depth and complexity of the procedure.

2. Incision & Access

   • A flap is made to expose the posterior maxilla (upper jaw, behind the molars).

3. Angled Drilling

   • The implant site is prepared by drilling posteriorly and superiorly, angled toward the pterygoid plate (dense cortical bone).

4. Implant Placement

   • A long, angled implant (usually 20–25 mm) is inserted, gaining fixation in the pterygoid bone.

   • This provides strong anchorage without bone grafting or sinus elevation.

5. Closure

   • Gums are sutured over or around the implants, and healing begins.

   • In many cases, a temporary full-arch prosthesis is attached the same day (immediate loading).

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​Post-Operation Instructions