Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implants

Dental Implants for Severe Bone Loss

If you’ve been told you don’t qualify for traditional dental implants due to bone loss in your upper jaw, zygomatic and pterygoid implants in Beaverton and Portland, OR, may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. At Teeth In 24™, Dr. Heath Lampee offers these advanced implant techniques to restore full arches of teeth, without the need for bone grafting or months of healing.

What Are Zygomatic Implants?

Unlike conventional dental implants, which are placed into the upper jawbone, zygomatic implants are anchored into the zygomatic (cheek) bones. These bones are naturally denser than the upper jaw and provide a secure foundation for patients who have experienced significant bone loss due to gum disease, trauma, or long-term denture use.

This approach eliminates the need for bone grafts, sinus lifts, or extended healing before implant placement, making it one of the most reliable solutions for patients with severe bone loss.

What Are Pterygoid Implants?

Pterygoid implants are placed in the pterygoid region at the back of the upper jaw. This area provides strong support even when much of the upper jawbone has resorbed over time. For patients with advanced bone loss in the posterior region, pterygoid implants allow a secure restoration without bone grafting or sinus surgery.

By combining zygomatic and pterygoid implants, even the most complex cases can achieve a stable full arch of teeth. Patients who were once told they had “no options” often discover they can have a fixed, permanent smile with these techniques.

Who Is a Candidate for Zygomatic and Pterygoid Dental Implants?

These advanced implants are ideal for patients who:

Benefits of Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implants

For patients with severe bone loss, the advantages are life-changing:

Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implants at Teeth In 24™

Because these procedures are among the most advanced in implant dentistry, they should only be performed by highly trained experts. Dr. Heath Lampee is the first and only Diplomate Dentist in Beaverton, Oregon, with the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (ABOI/ID). His extensive experience makes him one of the few U.S. dentists who routinely places zygomatic and pterygoid implants as part of full arch restoration treatments.

At Teeth In 24™, Dr. Lampee uses 3D CBCT scans and digital planning software to map the exact placement of each implant. This ensures maximum stability, ideal function, and a natural-looking smile. Many patients also receive additional conventional implants in areas of healthy jawbone, providing even greater support for their new smile.

Learn more about how Dr. Lampee is also an expert at treating failing implants.

Do I Have Enough Bone for Dental Implants?

Many people wonder if they have enough bone in their upper jaw to support dental implants. Bone loss can occur after years of wearing dentures, advanced gum disease, or tooth loss that wasn’t replaced.

In many cases, traditional implants require bone grafting before placement. Zygomatic and pterygoid implants eliminate that barrier by anchoring into stronger facial structures instead.

If you’re concerned about bone loss, we encourage you to read our simple guide: Do I Have Enough Bone for Dental Implants?

Frequently Asked Questions About Zygomatic and Pterygoid Implants

Are zygomatic and pterygoid implants safe?

Yes. Both techniques have been used successfully for decades and are safe when performed by an experienced implant dentist. Dr. Lampee uses advanced imaging and planning technology for precision and safety.

What is the difference between zygomatic and pterygoid implants?

Zygomatic implants are anchored into the cheekbone, while pterygoid implants are placed in the back of the upper jaw. Both provide secure support when traditional implants aren’t possible due to bone loss.

Who needs pterygoid implants instead of bone grafting?

Patients with severe bone loss in the posterior upper jaw often benefit from pterygoid implants, which bypass the need for sinus lifts or bone grafts.

How long does treatment take with zygomatic or pterygoid implants?

With Teeth In 24™, patients often leave with implants and a fixed set of teeth in as little as 24 hours.
Testimonials

Our Patients Tell the Story Best

Eller
I am extremely grateful for Dr. Lampee and his staff. Facing the prospect of having one’s teeth removed and replaced can be quite scary, but Dr. Lampee guided me through the process with care and ease. His staff treated me with care and respect while remaining professional.
Glory Kurtzbein
Calm, welcoming, efficient, helpful, and thorough.
Jim Barber
Dr. Lampee is an amazing Doctor. Probably the best dentist I have ever been to. He is a great person and cares deeply for his patients. I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Ashley Ringheim
Dr. Lampee and his staff were amazing! I suffer from a high level of dental anxiety and needed some dental work done badly. Dr. Lampee and his staff put me at ease immediately and never made me feel silly or like I was overreacting. I used oral sedation for a root canal, crown and fillings. Dr. Lampee completed all the work in one appointment and it was the best dentist experience of my life. 100% recommend!
Bill Ellis
Gracious, friendly and professional response from front desk to dental technician to Dr. Lampee. Very professional assessment of options for my somewhat complex issues, based on outstanding technology and engaged and complete explanations from Dr. Lampee. Worthy of 6 stars!
Christian Scritsmier
Dr. Lampee is probably the most highly skilled dentist in the greater Portland area. My wife and I are truly grateful for finding this dental surgeon. Wanda, Lisa, and Dr. Lampee make up a great team. They are courteous, ethical, provide excellent service, and produce amazing results.
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At Dr. Lampee’s Teeth in 24 dental practice in Beaverton, OR, our unrelenting devotion to patient care is at the core of everything we do. From the warm atmosphere of our lobby to the state-of-the-art technology in our treatment and diagnostic rooms, Dr. Lampee and the Teeth in 24 team continue to set and define the standard for dental care in Northwest Oregon.