If you've recently experienced tooth loss or your dentist is recommending extraction, you may worry slightly about your future appearance and chewing function. Knowing that dental implants are one of the most common forms of tooth replacement today, though, you can have some degree of confidence that your smile and chewing can be restored to normal. Over time, the minor issues that have existed within dental implant treatment have been addressed. Lack of bone density is one of them. In this instance, many patients have been able to receive dental implants after bone grafting or, in the case of the upper jaw, a sinus lift. Now we have another option, zygomatic dental implants.
Dr. Jirik is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He believes in staying current with advanced implant techniques and is pleased to have received training in the use of zygomatic implants. When you are ready to learn more, contact our Cabot, AR office at (501) 843-9561!
What are Zygomatic Dental Implants?
Zygomatic dental implants are designed specifically for use in the upper jaw. These implant posts are longer than traditional dental implants so are ideal for patients with a lack of adequate bone mass. These innovative dental implants can replace one or more teeth in the upper arch and can be combined with traditional implants for full-mouth tooth replacement.
What Makes Zygomatic Implants Different?
The size of zygomatic dental implants is the first difference between them and traditional implants. They are named according to their insertion point, the zygomatic bone, otherwise known as the cheekbone. The zygomatic bone is dense enough to easily anchor dental implants, offering the same degree of stability that is associated with dental implants inserted directly into healthy jaw bone. While the insertion point is different, the insertion technique is the same, as is the success rate between these implants and the traditional method. The success rate of zygomatic implants is approximately 98 percent.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Zygomatic Implants in Cabot?
For dental implant treatment to work successfully, it is necessary to have sufficient bone mass for the implant posts to fuse with. Historically, a lack of bone mass would disqualify a patient from being a candidate for this treatment. Then, bone grafting techniques were developed. Then came the sinus lift, which stimulated the growth of new bone tissue by creating space between the upper jaw and the maxillary sinus cavity. Zygomatic dental implants eliminate the need for either of these approaches. If you would like to receive dental implants but do not have enough bone density in the upper jaw, you may be a good candidate for this method of tooth replacement. During your consultation, Dr. Jirik will carefully review pertinent health information and will examine your jawbone. X-rays may be taken to get a clear visual of your bone density, and he will explain how the dental implant procedure works.
What is the Implant Process Like?
We make getting dental implants as easy and pleasant as possible. During your consultation and treatment planning, we are happy to answer any questions that arise. On the day of your treatment, we want you to feel confident and excited about your new smile! Your procedure will be performed using IV anesthesia. This is a safe and reliable method of ensuring your comfort and peace of mind. You may be groggy from the medication so you should arrange to have someone come with you to your appointment and drive you home. To map out your implant insertion points, we may perform a CT scan beforehand. Dr. Jirik carefully inserts the implants through tiny incisions in your gums. The implants are inserted into the zygomatic bone at an angle to promote ideal stability. If you also receive standard implants, these are inserted vertically into the jawbone. To complete the procedure, he affixes your new teeth into place.
How Long will it Take to Receive My Zygomatic Implants?
Due to the strength of the zygomatic bone, your new dental implants will be ready for immediate loading! This means that your new teeth can be affixed to your dental implants during the same visit, allowing you to maintain a consistent appearance while your implants heal. You can expect to be back to most of your normal activities and eating habits in about one week.
Are Zygomatic Implants Painful?
Your comfort is important to us. Dr. Jirik relies on IV anesthesia to maintain patient comfort during implant procedures. This consistent delivery method is proven to offer effective pain management during clinical procedures. After your procedure, you may experience minor soreness or tenderness for a few days. We will discuss how to best manage comfort at home using appropriate medication. You may need to eat softer foods for a few days to allow time for your mild discomfort to subside.
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Schedule your Cabot Dental Implant Consultation Today!
We love restoring beautiful, functional smiles! Contact us at (501) 843-9561 to schedule your consultation at our Cabot, AR office.
