Zygomatic Implants: What Are They & Who Needs Them?

By Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, Mumbai based Endodontist Specializing in Crafting the Perfect Smile

Introduction: Why Zygomatic Implants Matter

If you’ve ever had trouble wearing regular dentures or found out you can’t get conventional dental implants due to severe bone loss in your upper jaw, you might have come across the term “zygomatic implants.” Perhaps a neighbor in Sewri mentioned it during a conversation about their dental woes, or a relative in Dadar hinted at a cutting-edge procedure that lets them skip the headache of bone grafting. So what are these implants? Why are they suddenly getting more attention among folks in Matunga, Ghatkopar, and Antop Hill?

I’m Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, and for the past decade, I’ve been helping people across Mumbai restore their smiles—particularly those who thought they had no chance of getting a stable set of teeth again. In a bustling city like ours, with its blend of tradition and modernity, losing teeth isn’t just about aesthetics. It can affect everyday life, from relishing that crispy vada pav at a local stall to confidently striking up a chat with your colleagues.

That’s exactly why zygomatic implants matter. They’re an advanced, specialized dental solution designed for people who’ve lost so much bone in their upper jaw that traditional implants simply won’t work—at least not without extensive grafting. Over the years, these implants have allowed many Mumbaikars to regain the joys of a stable, functional smile without the drawn-out wait times of complicated bone-grafting procedures.

But what exactly are zygomatic implants, and why might you consider them? Let’s dive right in and explore how they work, who they’re ideal for, and what you can expect if you decide to take this route.

1. Understanding Zygomatic Implants

In simplest terms, zygomatic implants anchor into your cheekbone (the zygomatic bone) rather than the typical upper jawbone (maxilla). Whereas conventional dental implants rely on having enough healthy jawbone in your upper arch, zygomatic implants bypass the need for that bone entirely.

Why is that significant? Because if you’ve suffered severe bone loss—perhaps from years of wearing loose dentures or from advanced gum disease—your upper jaw might be too weak to hold a traditional implant. That’s where the cheekbone steps in. The zygomatic bone is often dense enough even when the maxilla is not, offering a reliable new anchorage point.

Historically, zygomatic implants were considered a niche solution, primarily used in cases of extreme bone deficiency. However, as techniques improved and more dentists got specialized training, these implants became a go-to solution for people who wanted to avoid or reduce the need for multiple bone grafting surgeries. They’re especially transformative for those who might otherwise face a future of poorly fitting dentures or simply living without teeth.

I once treated an elderly gentleman from Matunga who had been turned away by multiple clinics for having “no hope” of getting implants. After evaluating his scans, I realized he was the perfect candidate for zygomatic implants. Within a matter of months, he was beaming proudly at his granddaughter’s wedding, confidently enjoying every morsel of the festive food—no more complaining about ill-fitting dentures that slipped at the worst possible times!

2. How Zygomatic Implants Differ From Standard Implants

Let’s break it down:

Placement
- Standard implants anchor into the jawbone, typically requiring adequate bone height and width.
- Zygomatic implants, on the other hand, are longer and are placed at an angulation that allows them to reach the denser zygomatic bone above the upper jaw.
Bone Requirements
- For conventional implants, you need sufficient maxillary bone. If you’re lacking bone, you’d often need sinus lifts or bone grafts.
- For zygomatic implants, the bulk of anchorage is in the cheekbone, making them suitable for those with severe bone atrophy in the upper jaw.
Procedure Complexity
- Conventional implant surgery can be straightforward or moderate in complexity.
- Zygomatic implant surgery is more specialized and typically requires sedation or even general anesthesia, given the surgical intricacy. Dentists performing this procedure usually have advanced training.
Success Rates & Longevity
- Properly placed standard implants boast success rates of around 95% or more, provided there’s enough bone and good aftercare.
- Zygomatic implants can also achieve high success rates, though they demand a skilled surgical team to minimize risks related to sinuses or nerve structures.

A personal note: When I first introduced zygomatic implants to my patients in Ghatkopar, a few were skeptical—“Isn’t that more complicated?” they’d ask. After seeing how quickly their function and confidence returned—often bypassing the months of bone graft healing required for standard implants—they were ecstatic about the trade-off.

3. Who Needs Zygomatic Implants?

So, how do you know if you’re the right fit for zygomatic implants?

Severe Bone Loss
- If your upper jaw has significant atrophy, making it impossible or highly challenging to place standard implants, zygomatic implants could be a game-changer.
- This often happens with people who’ve worn removable dentures for years.
Failed Conventional Implants
- Sometimes, standard implants fail in the upper jaw due to poor bone support. Zygomatic implants may serve as a fallback option.
Time Constraints
- If you’re eager to restore your smile quickly without multiple bone graft surgeries (which can add 6–12 months to the process), zygomatic implants might be the faster route.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Many of my patients from Dadar and Sewri lead very busy lives, juggling careers, family, and social obligations. They can’t afford extended downtime for repeated surgeries. Zygomatic implants, in some cases, allow a quicker return to normal life.

I recall a working professional from Antop Hill who was worried about the time off he’d need for multiple sinus lifts if he chose conventional implants. Zygomatic implants offered him a more direct path—no extra grafting, fewer procedures, and he was back in the office the following week, comfortably speaking in meetings without the embarrassment of loose dentures.

4. The Surgical Process: Step-by-Step

Understanding the journey from consultation to a fully restored smile can alleviate a lot of anxiety. Let’s outline what typically happens with zygomatic implants:

Preoperative Assessment & Scans
- A detailed CBCT scan (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) helps visualize your cheekbone structure, nerves, and sinuses. This imaging is critical for accurate placement.
- At this stage, we also discuss your medical history, including any conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart issues that might affect surgery.
Planning & Preparation
- Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS and the surgical team will plan the length, diameter, and angulation of each zygomatic implant. This is far more intricate than standard implant planning due to the anatomical variations in the cheekbone.
- You’ll receive guidelines about fasting, medications, and sedation levels.
Anesthesia
- Because zygomatic implant placement is more extensive, many patients opt for IV sedation or even general anesthesia for maximum comfort. Local anesthesia alone may be insufficient for such a complex procedure.
Implant Placement
- The surgeon accesses your upper jaw and positions the longer implants so they anchor into the zygomatic bone. Sometimes they’ll combine these implants with standard implants in the front portion of the upper jaw.
- This step requires precise angling to avoid sinus cavities and crucial anatomical structures.
Temporary Restoration
- In some cases, you can receive a temporary fixed prosthesis on the same day, ensuring you don’t leave the clinic with a gummy smile. This depends on the initial stability of the implants.
Healing & Integration
- Over the next few months, the implants will osseointegrate—fuse with your cheekbone. This period varies, but you’ll usually wear a temporary restoration until healing is sufficient to place a final bridge or denture.

5. Recovery & Aftercare

Recovery from zygomatic implant surgery can be a bit more involved than with conventional implants, but it’s manageable with the right care:

Post-Surgery Expectations
- Swelling, mild bruising, and a bit of facial discomfort are normal. The cheekbone area may feel tender, especially if you had multiple implants placed.
- Adhering to the recommended rest period—usually a couple of days off work—is wise.
Medication & Check-Ups
- Your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics to ward off infection and pain relievers to manage discomfort.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to track healing and to ensure no complications arise—especially around the sinuses.
Oral Hygiene
- You’ll need to gently clean your mouth—an antibacterial mouth rinse can help in the initial days when brushing might be tender.
- As the soreness subsides, you can shift to soft-bristled brushes and eventually resume normal oral hygiene methods.
Lifestyle Tips
- Smoking can drastically impair healing by reducing blood flow, so it’s best to cut down or quit during the recovery phase.
- A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and proteins can speed up healing. Think soft, wholesome foods like dal, soups, and smoothies.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first week or two to prevent excessive bleeding or swelling.

I recall a patient from Matunga who treated her post-surgery phase like a little vacation—she watched her favorite TV shows, sipped on tasty smoothies, and got a solid 8 hours of sleep each night. She reported minimal swelling and a surprisingly smooth healing process, crediting her rest-and-relax routine for the speedy recovery!

6. Pros & Cons: Weighing the Benefits and Risks

No dental procedure is without its pluses and minuses. Here’s a balanced look at zygomatic implants:

Advantages

Avoiding Extensive Bone Grafting: Since they anchor into the cheekbone, many patients skip the need for complex procedures like sinus lifts.
Faster Turnaround: In many cases, you can receive a temporary prosthesis immediately, minimizing the time spent without teeth.
High Success Rate: Studies show promising long-term results when performed by trained specialists.
Life-Changing Results: For those who’ve been told they’re “not a candidate for implants,” zygomatic implants can be a game-changer.

Challenges & Risks

More Invasive Procedure: The surgery is technically demanding and more invasive than standard implants, often requiring sedation or general anesthesia.
Potential Complications: There’s a higher risk of sinus-related issues if the implants aren’t placed accurately.
Cost: Zygomatic implants generally cost more due to the advanced surgical technique and specialized materials.
Availability of Expertise: Not all dental implantologists perform zygomatic procedures; you may need to seek a specialized clinic or oral surgeon.

One of my patients, Kamal from Ghatkopar, took a long time to decide on zygomatic implants. He was initially concerned about the invasiveness. But after discussing it with me and watching video testimonials of other patients, he realized the benefits far outweighed the downsides in his unique situation of severe bone loss. Today, he beams with confidence and often says, “I wish I’d done this sooner.”

7. Cost & Accessibility in Mumbai

Zygomatic implants aren’t exactly “budget” procedures, but the cost can vary based on:

Number of Implants: Some patients need just one or two zygomatic implants combined with standard implants, while others need multiple.
Clinic & Location: High-end clinics in Dadar or Matunga might charge more than smaller practices in Sewri or Ghatkopar.
Expertise: A board-certified oral surgeon or an implantologist with extensive experience in zygomatic procedures may charge higher fees.
Anesthesia & Other Treatments: If you opt for IV sedation or require additional minor procedures, the total cost increases.

Financially, many clinics offer EMI (Equated Monthly Installment) plans or tie-ups with medical finance companies to spread out the expense. Some dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the procedure, though coverage in India for advanced implant treatments is still relatively limited compared to other countries.

A patient from Antop Hill once broke down the numbers and realized that multiple bone grafts plus standard implants would cost about the same as zygomatic implants—but with double the healing time and additional surgeries. For her, choosing zygomatic implants was more cost-effective in the long run.

8. Real-Life Cases & Success Stories

Case Study 1: A Senior from Dadar

Mrs. Shah had been wearing traditional dentures for nearly 15 years. She struggled with constant gum sores and had extreme bone loss in her upper jaw. Multiple clinics told her she wasn’t a candidate for regular implants without extensive grafting. After a thorough consultation, we decided on two zygomatic implants in the back and two regular implants in the front. She was astonished at how quickly she could transition to a fixed bridge and how stable her new teeth felt. Now she happily joins her kitty parties, munching on crunchy snacks without any hesitation.

Case Study 2: A Working Professional in Matunga

Mr. Mehta, a mid-level manager at a corporate office, had a tight schedule and limited time for repeated surgeries. He’d lost several upper teeth due to gum disease. With minimal maxillary bone left, zygomatic implants offered him a single-stage approach. Within a few weeks, he was attending business meetings with a confident smile, no longer fretting about the possibility of dentures slipping mid-conversation.

These stories drive home the point that zygomatic implants aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about functionality, confidence, and quality of life.

9. Deciding If Zygomatic Implants Are Right for You

If you suspect you might be a candidate for zygomatic implants—or if you’ve been told by other clinics that your upper jaw doesn’t have enough bone—here’s how to move forward:

Schedule a Consultation
- Book an appointment with Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS or another dental implantologist experienced in zygomatic procedures. Bring any existing X-rays or medical records you have.
Undergo a Detailed Evaluation
- Expect a CBCT scan and a thorough oral exam. We’ll assess not just bone quality but also your overall health—blood sugar levels, heart conditions, etc.
Discuss Your Lifestyle & Budget
- Be honest about time constraints, financial considerations, and long-term goals. This helps us suggest the most practical solution.
Review the Treatment Plan
- A good dentist will explain the entire process, from surgery day to final restoration, including possible risks, healing times, and aftercare routines.
Make an Informed Decision
- It’s okay to get a second opinion if you’re uncertain. Zygomatic implants are a big commitment—both physically and financially—so you want to feel completely confident.

One tip from personal experience: Don’t shy away from asking lots of questions. I find that the more patients understand about the procedure and its benefits, the more at ease they feel, and the better their final outcome tends to be.

Conclusion: Restoring Smiles with Zygomatic Implants

Living in Mumbai means embracing a city that’s constantly on the move—be it the fast-paced corporate life in Dadar, the family-centric neighborhoods of Matunga, or the vibrant cultural mix in Sewri, Ghatkopar, and Antop Hill. In such an environment, missing teeth can be a major hurdle, impacting your confidence, your social life, and your ability to enjoy the culinary wonders this city has to offer.

That’s where zygomatic implants come in. Think of them as the next level of dental implants—an option that opens doors for people who’ve been told they can’t get implants due to severe bone loss, or for those who don’t want to endure multiple bone-grafting surgeries and extended treatment times. While the procedure is more complex and potentially more costly than standard implants, the payoff can be nothing short of life-changing.

As Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, I’ve seen patients light up—literally—once they realize zygomatic implants let them reclaim the freedom to chew, speak, and smile with zero apprehension. If you’ve been living in discomfort with ill-fitting dentures or feeling stuck because you lack the bone for conventional implants, it may be time to consider zygomatic implants.

Final Word: Dental technology and techniques are advancing at lightning speed. If you’re curious, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. Let your dentist assess your unique situation. And remember, the goal is simple—to help you live your best life, flashing a confident, worry-free smile, whether you’re catching up with friends at a Dadar café or enjoying a peaceful walk through the lanes of Antop Hill.

(Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified dental professional—such as Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS—for an individualized treatment plan.)

WhiteRock Dental Clinic
807 B, Lodha Supremus, New Cuffe Parade, Wadala East, Mumbai 400037, India