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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
In situ Compressive Loading and Correlative Noninvasive Imaging of the Bone-periodontal Ligament-tooth Fibrous Joint
Published on: March 7, 2014
A study of 25 zygomatic dental implants with 11 to 49 months' follow-up after loading
Fredrik Ahlgren1, Kjell Størksen, Knut Tornes
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Haukeland University Hospital and Institute of Odontology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway. fredrik.ahlgren@odont.uib.no
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate indications, surgical problems, complications, and treatment outcomes related to the placement of zygomatic implants. A second aim was to determine any prosthetic difficulties and complications.
Materials And Methods:
Twenty-five zygomatic implants were placed in 13 patients between April 1999 and December 2001. The patient age range was between 49 and 73 years, with a mean age of 59 years. All patients showed severe resorption of alveolar bone in the maxilla. All but 2 patients were smokers. Two patients had a history of cleft palate surgery, and 2 patients were known to be bruxers. Standard recommended surgical protocol was followed, and treatment was performed under general anesthesia. After abutment surgery, 9 patients received bar-retained overdentures, and 4 patients received fixed prostheses.
Results:
No implants were lost, and few surgical complications were experienced. The follow-up period was 11 to 49 months.
Discussion:
Although surgical problems precipitated by difficult anatomy in cleft patients and a patient with reduced interarch access were experienced, the results were favorable. Fabricating a functional and esthetic prosthesis can be a challenge.
Conclusion:
Zygomatic implants provide a treatment option for patients with severe maxillary resorption, defects, or situations where previous implant treatment has failed. In this experience, treatment with zygomatic implants was a predictable method with few complications, even in a group of patients that would not be considered ideal for implant treatment.
