Understanding Zygomatic and Angled Implants

Zygomatic implants are longer implants anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma), a strong and stable area that often remains even when the upper jaw has lost bone.

Angled implants are placed at a strategic tilt to take advantage of available bone and avoid delicate areas like the sinus cavity.

At Rice Dentistry, we combine these advanced solutions with personalized dental care in Irvine, making it possible for patients once told they weren’t candidates for implants to enjoy the benefits of a fixed, functional smile.

Who Is a Candidate?

You may benefit from zygomatic or angled implants if you:

  • Have severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
  • Have been told you’re not a candidate for traditional implants.
  • Wore dentures for years and want a fixed alternative.
  • Want to avoid bone grafts, sinus lifts, or multiple surgeries.

Even if you’ve been turned away elsewhere, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Our Irvine implant dentists have helped many patients regain their smiles with advanced techniques.

Procedure Overview at Rice Dentistry

Your treatment begins with advanced diagnostics, including CBCT 3D imaging for precise planning. On the day of surgery, you’ll be made comfortable with sedation dentistry.

Depending on your needs, our dentists will place zygomatic implants, angled implants, or a combination of both. In many cases, we can attach a provisional restoration the same day — often referred to as “teeth in a day”.

Benefits of Zygomatic & Angled Implants

  • Avoid bone grafts and sinus lifts.
  • Faster treatment compared to traditional methods.
  • High success rates, even in complex cases.
  • Immediate improvement in chewing and speaking.
  • A natural-looking smile designed to last.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are ideal for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. They provide immediate stability by anchoring in the cheekbone, so there’s no need for bone grafting. Patients can often receive their new teeth right away. The trade-off is that the procedure is more complex and typically requires sedation, which is why it should only be performed by highly experienced implant dentists.

Angled Implants

Angled implants are a great choice for patients with moderate bone loss. By placing the implants at a tilt, dentists can avoid sensitive areas like the sinus cavity while still achieving secure support. The procedure is less invasive than a bone graft, but it’s only suitable for certain bone patterns. For the right candidate, this is a minimally invasive and highly effective solution.

Bone Graft With Traditional Implants

A bone graft followed by traditional implants is the most familiar approach for restoring lost bone. It’s widely used and well-understood, but it comes with downsides: extra surgeries, higher cost, and longer healing times before implants can be placed. This option is best for patients who have adequate healing capacity and prefer a staged, traditional path to dental implants.

Risks and Considerations

Every surgical procedure carries some risks. With zygomatic and angled implants, these may include sinus complications, implant loosening, or longer healing times in certain patients.

At Rice Dentistry, we reduce these risks through:

  • Detailed 3D planning.
  • Guided surgical techniques.
  • Decades of implant dentistry experience.
  • Careful follow-up to monitor healing and success.

Recovery and Post-Op Expectations

Most patients experience some swelling and soreness for the first few days, which can be managed with medication. A soft-food diet is recommended for the first week, and many people return to work or social activities within 5–7 days.

Over time, your implants integrate with the bone, providing lasting stability. With proper care, zygomatic and angled implants can last for decades.

Cost of Zygomatic and Angled Implants in Irvine

The cost of treatment varies depending on:

  • The number of implants placed.
  • Whether both jaws are treated.
  • Type of final restoration (bridge or full arch).
  • Sedation needs and case complexity.

While exact costs can only be determined after a consultation, zygomatic and angled implants often reduce overall expense by eliminating the need for bone grafts and extra surgeries.

We’ll review your options, discuss insurance coverage, and explain financing plans to make your new smile attainable.

Real Patient Success Stories

Many patients come to Rice Dentistry after being told they couldn’t have implants. By using zygomatic and angled implants, we’ve helped restore their ability to chew, smile, and live confidently again.

“I thought dentures were my only choice, but Dr. Rice gave me permanent teeth with zygomatic implants. I can finally eat and smile without worry.” – Patient Testimonial

Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional implants anchor in the jawbone, while zygomatic implants are secured in the cheekbone, which is denser and more reliable for patients with bone loss.

Age isn’t a barrier. Health, bone quality, and treatment goals are more important factors.

With sedation and modern surgical techniques, most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

In many cases, yes. We can place a provisional restoration immediately after implant placement.

With proper care, they are designed to last decades, often for life.

Failures are rare, but if one occurs, alternative treatment options are available. Our experienced team is equipped to manage complex cases.

Studies show that zygomatic implants have success rates above 95%, even in patients with severe bone loss, making them a highly reliable treatment option.

They can be cared for just like traditional dental implants: daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. Regular checkups help ensure long-term success.

Why Choose Rice Dentistry in Irvine?

  • Experience: Decades of implant dentistry expertise.
  • Technology: Advanced 3D imaging and guided surgery.
  • Proven Results: Success with patients other dentists turned away.
  • Local Care: Serving Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, Lake Forest, and the greater Orange County community.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t let bone loss keep you from a confident smile. Discover how zygomatic and angled implants can change your life.

Call (949) 551-5902 today to schedule your consultation at Rice Dentistry in Irvine.