Zygomatic Implants without bone grafting
For patients with severe upper jaw bone loss who don't qualify for traditional dental implants, zygomatic implants anchor into the cheekbone (zygoma) — skipping the bone graft and restoring a full, functional smile in a fraction of the time. Available in Irving, Mesquite, and Ennis, TX.
What are zygomatic implants?
Losing one or more teeth affects more than your smile — it can make chewing and speaking harder, and over time the jaw bone that once supported those teeth begins to shrink from lack of stimulation. Periodontal disease accelerates the same bone loss. The result is a common but frustrating problem: patients want dental implants, but there isn't enough healthy bone in the upper jaw to anchor them.
Zygomatic implants solve this without bone grafting. Instead of anchoring in the maxilla (upper jaw bone), they're placed deeper, into the dense zygomatic bone — your cheekbone — which is rarely affected by the bone loss that rules out conventional implants. The result is a stable, permanent replacement for both the root and crown of a tooth, without months of grafting and healing first.
Traditional implants in a patient with significant bone loss typically require a bone graft, followed by 4–6 months of healing before the graft fuses to the jaw and an implant can even be placed. Zygomatic implants bypass that step entirely. Many patients are candidates for an immediate-loading procedure, meaning a functional, fixed set of teeth can be placed the same day as surgery.
Zygomatic implants vs. traditional dental implants
Not every patient needs a zygomatic implant — for many, a traditional implant is the right, more conservative choice. The deciding factor is almost always the amount and quality of bone remaining in the upper jaw. Our surgeons evaluate this with a 3D CT scan before recommending either path.
| Factor | Zygomatic Implants | Traditional Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Anchor point | Zygomatic bone (cheekbone) | Maxilla / mandible (jaw bone) |
| Bone graft needed | No, in most cases | Often, if bone volume is low |
| Best candidate | Severe upper jaw bone loss | Adequate existing bone volume |
| Typical timeline | Single procedure, immediate loading possible | 3–6+ months if grafting is required first |
The zygomatic implant process at DFWOMS
Every case begins with a thorough evaluation, including the same 3D cone-beam CT imaging our surgeons use across all procedures — giving a precise map of your bone structure and sinus anatomy before any surgical decision is made.
A cone-beam CT scan maps your existing bone volume and confirms whether zygomatic implants, traditional implants, or a combination is the right approach for your case.
The implant is anchored into the zygomatic bone, bypassing areas affected by bone loss. Because no graft is needed, this is typically completed in a single surgical visit.
Many patients leave with a functional, fixed temporary prosthesis the same day — restoring the ability to chew and speak normally while healing continues.
Once osseointegration is complete, your final, permanent restoration is placed — and our team coordinates follow-up care across our Irving, Mesquite, and Ennis offices.
Questions about zygomatic implants
Zygomatic implants are designed for patients who have lost significant bone in the upper jaw — often from long-term tooth loss, periodontal disease, or denture wear — and who would otherwise need extensive bone grafting before qualifying for traditional implants. A 3D CT scan during your consultation at DFWOMS confirms candidacy.
A traditional implant anchors directly into the jaw bone (maxilla or mandible) and requires adequate bone volume — often needing a graft first if that bone has deteriorated. A zygomatic implant anchors instead into the zygomatic bone, the dense cheekbone above the upper jaw, which is typically unaffected by the bone loss that rules out conventional implants. This generally means no graft and a faster overall timeline.
As with any oral surgery, some swelling and discomfort is normal during the first days of recovery. DFWOMS is an opioid-free practice, and our surgeons manage post-surgical pain with non-opioid protocols. Because zygomatic implants skip the bone-grafting step, overall recovery time is typically shorter than the traditional implant-with-graft pathway.
Coverage varies by plan and individual case. DFWOMS accepts Medicaid and most major dental insurance plans at all three Dallas–Fort Worth locations. Our team can review your specific coverage and discuss costs during your consultation.
Skip the graft. Restore your smile faster.
Our surgeons in Irving, Mesquite, and Ennis evaluate every case with 3D imaging to find the fastest safe path to a permanent restoration. Schedule your consultation today.