Zygomatic implants cost is typically higher than regular implants. This higher cost accounts for several factors, one of which is the obvious difference in complexity between the two procedures.
To truly understand the pricing of these dental implants, you must know all the factors that influence it so you may not miss out on this treatment on the premise of it being unreasonably expensive.
In this blog, we’ll discuss all the factors influencing zygomatic implants cost. We’ll also discuss the financing options available for this treatment so you may determine its affordability for yourself.
What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Before we address the subject of “how much do zygomatic implants cost?” let’s first get a brief overview of what they are and why they are used.
Zygomatic implants are a type of specialized dental implant that is meant to be placed into an edentulous patient’s cheekbone (zygomatic bone) rather than the jawbone.
These implants are specifically designed to provide permanent teeth restoration to edentulous patients with severely compromised upper jawbone-due to a condition known as maxillary atrophy-which renders the patient incapable of receiving regular implants. This is because having a healthy jawbone is one of the primary prerequisites for implant placement, and a severely compromised upper jaw makes it impossible for regular implants to be placed.
Hence, the cheekbone is utilized as a substitute for the jawbone for the placement of zygomatic implants, which, like normal implants, serve as stable anchors for prosthetic teeth.
While maxillary atrophy is the primary indication for zygomatic implant placement, they are also beneficial in cases where the upper jawbone requires bone grafting to make it compatible with regular implants, but the procedure can’t be performed for some reason. Hence, instead of performing a bone graft on the upper jawbone and placing regular implants there, zygomatic implants are used as an alternative, hassle-free treatment option.
Why Is The Cheekbone Chosen As A Substitute For The Upper Jawbone?
There are several reasons for selecting the cheekbone as a substitute for the upper jawbone for the placement of implants in people with maxillary atrophy.
These reasons include:
- The structural similarity between the cheekbone and the jawbone. Note that the cheekbones have an arch-shaped structure, which is very similar to that of the jawbone. Its overall length and breadth are also comparable to the jawbone.
- Moreover, the cheekbone is also similar to the jawbone in terms of its cellular makeup and strength. Its volume and density are pretty much similar to those of the jawbone, making it ideal for implant placement.
- The cheekbone’s proximity to the gums is another reason why it’s an ideal substitute for the jawbone. This makes the cheekbone easier to access during the implant surgery.
- Besides being close to the gums, the cheekbone is separated from the maxillary sinuses. This reduces the chances of unwanted complications (such as sinus leaks) during surgery.
- The sturdy and immovable nature of the cheekbone helps provide a stable anchorage to the prosthetic teeth.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Zygomatic Implants
As we mentioned earlier, the cost of zygomatic implants is typically higher than that of regular implants.
One fundamental reason for the disparity in the cost is because of the comparatively complex (but not risky, zygomatic implants have a high success rate!) nature of the zygomatic implant surgery, which needs extra skills on the part of the surgeon performing it. Therefore, surgeons charge extra for the added effort and labor that goes into planning and executing this surgery and for the years of training that they spend perfecting their craft.
The basic factors that influence the cost of zygomatic implants, however, are the same as those that are considered in traditional implant surgeries (with a little bit of extra charge due to the specialized nature of the treatment).
These factors include:
- The cost of the initial consultation fee, where the surgeon takes a comprehensive account of your oral and general health to determine your eligibility for zygomatic implants.
- The cost of the pre-surgical diagnostic imaging procedures where the surgeon takes professional photographs of your mouth (especially your cheekbones) using advanced diagnostic tools like CT scans and x-rays. These imaging techniques assist in the proper planning of implant surgery, helping determine the precise position of the implants in the cheekbone, the implant angulation, etc.
- The cost of the implant surgery (the insertion of the implants into the cheekbones) itself. This includes the anesthesia cost, facility fee, the cost of the surgical tools and equipment used, etc. Note that the surgical fee is higher in zygomatic implants because the surgery is more elaborate and complex than regular implant surgeries.
- The cost of the implants and the prosthetic device (implant denture) used. This will majorly depend on the type and quality of the material used, with high-quality, durable materials (such as Zirconia) being on the higher side of the cost.
Note that all the above-mentioned factors will show further variation depending on the specific dental clinic where you get your treatment. Every clinic has its own standards of pricing based on the geographical location of the clinic, the level of technology they use, and the quality of care provided there.
Financing Options For Zygomatic Implants
Considering the cost of the zygomatic implant treatment, many dental clinics take the initiative to make it accessible and affordable to deserving patients.
Some clinics offer a complete waiver on the initial consultation and pre-surgical diagnostics fee and only charge for the implants, the prosthesis, and the surgery.
Moreover, some clinics partner up with third party lenders to offer financing options in terms of financing loans. The loan is granted based on certain criteria, which differ from clinic to clinic but may include aspects like your credit score. For instance, you may be offered a loan with flexible repayment terms where you can repay it in installments (over a specified length of time, such as 3 years, 4 years, 5 years, and so on) with zero down payments.
Conclusion
Zygomatic implants provide a reliable and durable way of permanently restoring teeth in people with maxillary atrophy, something that was unthinkable before their invention. These implants may be costly, but their long-term benefits heavily outweigh the upfront price that patients invest in this treatment.
For more details about Zygomatic Implants, schedule a FREE consultation with Oklahoma Implant Clinic, a premium dental clinic based in Oklahoma City, OK. Our team of expert implant surgeons will walk you through the ins and outs of this treatment, paving your way to a beautiful smile transformation!
