Zygomatic implants in Dubai — options for severe upper jaw bone loss

Key facts

• Anchored in the cheekbone, not the upper jaw
• For severe upper bone loss
• Pterygoid implants are another graft-free route
• Alternatives: tilted implants, sinus lift, grafts
• Specialised surgery — referral when indicated

What zygomatic and pterygoid implants are

After teeth are lost, the upper jaw bone gradually shrinks, and the sinuses can expand downward. Eventually there may be only a few millimetres of bone where back teeth used to be. Zygomatic implants bypass this area: they are much longer than standard implants and pass from the gum, along or through the sinus region, to anchor in the dense bone of the cheekbone. Pterygoid implants take a different route, anchoring at the very back of the upper jaw in the pterygoid plate area. Both are used mainly to support a fixed full-arch bridge, often combined with standard implants at the front where bone remains.

Who might need them

These implants are generally considered for adults with severe upper jaw atrophy who want fixed teeth and either cannot have, or prefer to avoid, extensive grafting. Typical situations include long-term denture wearers, people who lost implants or bone through infection, those with large sinus pneumatisation, and some patients after trauma or surgery. They are not a first-line choice when standard implants, tilted implants (as in All-on-4) or a sinus lift can do the job. General health, smoking, sinus health and the ability to attend follow-up all matter, and the opinion of an ENT specialist may be sought if there is existing sinus disease.

Alternatives to discuss

Several routes may lead to fixed upper teeth, and a good assessment compares them honestly. Tilted implants in an All-on-4 design can often avoid the sinus. Shorter or narrower implants may work where some bone remains. A sinus lift adds bone under the sinus floor, with healing months before implants are loaded. Larger bone grafts can rebuild a thin ridge. For some patients, an implant-retained removable overdenture on fewer implants is a practical choice. Each option differs in surgical complexity, healing time, number of visits and cost. The aim is the least invasive approach that will reliably support the teeth you want.

Assessment and the referral pathway

Assessment begins with a full history, examination and a CBCT 3D scan, which shows remaining bone height and width, sinus anatomy and the cheekbone. Digital scans help plan the tooth position. Dr. Manhal Helfawee reviews whether standard or tilted implants, grafting, or zygomatic/pterygoid implants are the realistic options. Zygomatic implant surgery is highly specialised and often performed in a hospital setting; where it is the most suitable route, Manhal explains the pathway and coordinates a referral, and can continue your restorative care and maintenance. Risks such as sinus problems, soft tissue irritation and, rarely, injury to nearby structures are explained in advance.

Severe bone loss care at Manhal

Dr. Manhal Helfawee, founder and medical director of Manhal Medical Center, is a consultant implantologist with more than 20 years in the UAE and an advanced diploma in implant dentistry (DHA licence 00169366-001). His work includes All-on-4/6 and full-mouth rehabilitation, and the clinic’s oral and maxillofacial surgeon handles bone grafting and sinus lifts. If you have been told you lack bone for implants, bring any previous scans to your consultation. You will receive a clear explanation of your options, which are carried out at Manhal and which would need referral, and a written plan. Call +971 4 328 4560 or WhatsApp +971 52 987 2411.

All-on-4 and All-on-6 replace a full arch of teeth with a fixed bridge anchored on four or six implants. The angled placement of the back implants makes use of the strongest available bone, which often avoids extensive grafting.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Manhal Helfawee

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.