Zygomatic Implants in Tega Cay, SC

Reviewed by Dr. Riddhi Patel, DMD, MD, FACS
Last updated August 2026

When you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for dental implants, it can feel like a dead end. Traditional implants rely on adequate jawbone volume to anchor securely, and if that bone has deteriorated over time, the standard path forward often involves extensive bone grafting before placing any implant. That process takes months and adds significant complexity for many patients. Another option exists, and more patients are learning about it.

At Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Tega Cay, SC, we offer zygomatic implants for patients with significant bone loss in the upper jaw. Our oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Riddhi Patel, DMD, is board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and brings a meticulous, detail-oriented approach to every procedure. If you’ve been turned away elsewhere or told implants aren’t possible, we want to evaluate your case. Our practice offers a range of dental implant solutions for patients at every stage of bone loss.

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Zygomatic implants are a specialized type of implant designed for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw. Rather than anchoring in the jawbone like conventional implants, zygomatic implants are anchored in the cheekbone, also known as the zygomatic bone. Because the cheekbone is dense and stable, it provides a reliable foundation even when the jaw can no longer support implants.

These implants are longer than standard implants and require advanced surgical training to place correctly. They are not offered at every practice, which is why patients throughout the Tega Cay area come to Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery specifically for this procedure. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, patients with significant upper jaw bone loss may find zygomatic implants offer a viable path to a fixed smile when traditional options are no longer on the table, and in many cases, teeth can be attached the same day as surgery.

	Zygomatic Implants	Traditional Implants
Anchor Point	Cheekbone (zygomatic bone)	Jawbone
Best For	Severe upper jaw bone loss	Adequate jawbone volume
Grafting Required	Typically not required	Often required if bone is thin
Same-Day Teeth	Often possible	Depends on case
Availability	Requires advanced surgical training — not offered everywhere	Widely available

Who Is a Candidate for Zygomatic Implants?

Not every patient with bone loss will need zygomatic implants, but for those who do, they can make full-mouth restoration possible without extensive grafting procedures. You may be a candidate if you have been told your jawbone is too thin or has resorbed too much for traditional implants, if you’ve had multiple failed grafts, or if you want to avoid the added time and recovery that grafting typically requires.

Significant Bone Loss

Severe bone loss in the upper jaw due to long-term tooth loss, gum disease, or previous denture wear that rules out traditional implant placement.

Goal of a Fixed Solution

A desire for a fixed, non-removable full-arch solution rather than dentures or a removable appliance that relies on adhesives or suction.

Good Overall Health

Good overall health and a commitment to post-surgical care and maintenance for the long-term success of the implants.

How We Confirm Candidacy

A thorough evaluation, including 3D imaging, is required to determine if zygomatic implants are appropriate for your anatomy. Every case is different, and we take the time to assess yours with precision before recommending a path forward.

What to Expect During and After Surgery

Zygomatic implant surgery is performed under anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout. Our team discusses your comfort options in advance so there are no surprises on surgery day. Here is how the process unfolds:

Surgery Day

Performed under anesthesia. We offer several sedation approaches to match your comfort level and medical needs. Many patients leave with a temporary set of fixed teeth attached the same day.

Recovery Period

Our team walks you through pre-surgery and post-surgical care in detail. Most patients return to daily activities within a reasonable period as healing progresses.

Final Prosthesis

As healing is confirmed, you transition from your temporary teeth to your final prosthesis — a stable, natural-looking result designed for long-term function.

Zygomatic Implants as Part of a Full-Mouth Solution

For many patients who are missing all or most of their upper teeth, zygomatic implants are paired with additional implants to support a complete arch restoration. Depending on your anatomy and goals, this approach is sometimes used alongside same-day teeth solutions that allow for immediate function after surgery. Dr. Patel evaluates each case individually and creates a treatment plan tailored to your situation, not a one-size-fits-all protocol.

The goal is a stable, natural-looking result that allows you to eat, speak, and smile without the limitations of dentures or the discomfort of a removable appliance. For patients who need a comprehensive approach, we build out full-arch restorations tailored to your specific anatomy and long-term goals. We accept Delta Dental, Ameritas, Aetna, Guardian, Principal, MetLife, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Concordia, United Healthcare, and HSA/FSA funds to help make treatment accessible.

Get Answers at Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery in Tega Cay, SC

If you’ve been told implants aren’t an option for you, we encourage you to get a second opinion. Dr. Patel and the team at Harmony Dental Implants and Oral Surgery have the training and experience to evaluate complex cases and offer solutions that many practices cannot. Learn more about Dr. Patel’s background and approach to understand what sets this practice apart.

To find out whether zygomatic implants are right for you, reach out to schedule a consultation at our Tega Cay office. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you understand your options clearly, without pressure.