A Review on Zygomatic Implants-Historical Perspectives, Challenges, and Recent Developments

Maxillary edentulism is increasingly common, often resulting from conditions such as advanced dental caries, periodontal disease, trauma, or infection. This condition can have significant psychological, social, and functional consequences, leading to nutritional changes and various health conditions. The resorption of alveolar bone, particularly in the posterior maxilla, complicates the placement of conventional implants, necessitating bone grafting and sinus augmentation. With their excellent success rates and ability to eliminate the need for bone grafting, zygomatic implants offer an efficient alternative. Zygomatic implants, which were first introduced by Branemark in 1988, use the zygoma bone for posterior support, doing away with the requirement for directed bone regeneration or sinus elevation. Over time, surgical techniques and implant designs have evolved, with modifications such as the Zygoma Anatomy Guided Approach (ZAGA) for better implant placement. Indications include moderate to severe maxillary atrophy, cleft palate, and congenital or acquired defects. Zygomatic implants are particularly beneficial for patients requiring immediate loading and those unable to undergo multiple procedures. The procedure can be performed in an office setting with reduced operating time. The development of dynamic navigation systems has further improved the accuracy and safety of zygomatic implant placement, offering flapless techniques that minimize morbidity. Zygomatic implants are cost-effective compared to traditional grafting procedures, providing stable, aesthetically pleasing prostheses.