At Idea Dental in Istanbul, Turkey, zygomatic implants are an option for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw who cannot have conventional implants without extensive bone grafting. Instead of relying only on the jawbone, these longer implants are anchored in the cheekbone. Our indicative price is £5,000–£9,000 per jaw, depending on the number of implants, the implant system and the bridge material. Treatment usually involves two visits over 3–6 months.
This guide explains who zygomatic implants suit, how treatment works, what it costs and the risks to discuss with our team before booking your trip.
Our Digital Implant Workflow in Istanbul
Zygomatic implants pass close to the sinus and the eye socket, so careful planning matters from the start. Our digital workflow combines 3D imaging, computer-assisted treatment planning and customized full-arch restorations to create a plan based on each patient's anatomy and clinical needs.
Your Implant Team at Idea Dental
Zygomatic treatment involves both advanced surgery and the design of your new teeth. At Idea Dental, Spec. Dent. Gamze Kavuncu is a specialist periodontist and implantologist whose clinical work includes implant surgery, bone and soft-tissue regeneration, and treatment of peri-implant diseases.
Dr. Ali Can Yeni and Spec. Dent. Can Metiner work on implant-supported prosthetic treatments, including the restorations that fit onto implants. Before booking, ask our team to confirm who will carry out the surgical and restorative stages of your individual treatment.
Implant Systems and Your Fixed Bridge
Your written treatment plan should name the zygomatic implant system, any conventional implants used alongside it, the connecting abutments and the temporary and final bridge materials. Ask our team which systems are available for your case and request an implant certificate showing the brand, size and batch number of every implant placed.
The brands and single-tooth prices on our dental implant page describe conventional implant options. Ask for a separate, itemised quote for your zygomatic treatment and full upper bridge.
What Are Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants, also called zygoma implants, are long dental implants that replace the support normally provided by the bone at the back of the upper jaw. They enter through the mouth and are anchored in the zygomatic bone, better known as the cheekbone.
A typical plan combines two zygomatic implants at the back with conventional dental implants at the front of the jaw. If the front of the jaw also has too little bone, four zygomatic implants may be considered. The implants then support a fixed full-arch bridge. Zygomatic implants are used in the upper jaw only.
Zygomatic and Conventional Implants Compared
| Feature | Zygomatic implants | Conventional implants |
|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | Cheekbone | Upper or lower jawbone |
| Main use | Severe bone loss in the upper jaw | Missing teeth with enough bone, or after bone grafting |
| Implant length | Much longer | Shorter |
| Surgery | More complex, with planning around the sinus and eye socket | Usually simpler, often under local anaesthesia |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia with sedation | Usually local anaesthesia |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Zygomatic Implants?
Zygomatic implants may be considered when the upper jaw has too little bone for conventional implants, particularly at the back of the mouth. This can follow long-term tooth loss, gum disease, sinus enlargement or previous failed implants. Before treatment, the following points need to be assessed:
- Bone anatomy: 3D scans must show suitable anchorage in the cheekbone and a safe implant path.
- Sinus health: An active sinus infection or other sinus problem should be assessed and treated before surgery.
- Gum health: Gum disease and other infections in the mouth must be treated first.
- General health: Your medical history, medications and fitness for sedation or general anaesthesia are reviewed.
- Habits: Smoking, teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene can affect healing and long-term results.
Zygomatic implants are not the first choice for everyone. If you have enough bone, standard implants or a less complex option are usually preferred.
Zygomatic Implants and Other Options
| Option | May suit | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Zygomatic implants | Severe upper jaw bone loss | More complex surgery, with specific sinus-related risks |
| Bone grafting or sinus lift | Patients who can have the bone rebuilt before implant placement | Extra surgery and a longer treatment timeline |
| All-on-4 | Patients with enough bone for four implants, some placed at an angle | Standard All-on-4 may not be possible if bone loss is too severe |
| Implant-supported overdenture | Patients with enough bone for a smaller number of implants | Removable rather than fixed teeth |
The Zygomatic Implant Procedure Step by Step
- Consultation and planning: Your dentist reviews your medical history, examines your mouth and uses a 3D CT scan to assess the jaw, cheekbone and sinuses.
- Anaesthesia: Zygomatic surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia with sedation. The method and setting should be confirmed in your treatment plan.
- Implant placement: The gum is opened to give the surgeon a clear view of the bone. The implant sites are prepared, each implant is placed along its planned path, and the gum is closed with stitches.
- Temporary teeth: When the implants are stable enough, a fixed temporary bridge can usually be fitted within a few days of surgery. Your dentist will confirm whether this is suitable for you.
- Healing: Over the following months, the bone bonds with the implants (osseointegration). You will need to follow a soft diet and your dentist’s instructions during this period.
- Final bridge: Once healing is complete, digital impressions are taken and your final bridge is made, tried in and secured.
How Long Do You Need to Stay in Turkey?
Most patients complete zygomatic implant treatment in two trips to Istanbul, 3–6 months apart:
- First visit – surgery (5–7 days): Scans, any necessary extractions, implant surgery, a fixed temporary bridge where suitable and early post-operative checks.
- Healing period – at home (3–6 months): The implants bond with the bone while you follow your eating, cleaning and review instructions.
- Second visit – final teeth (5–7 days): Digital impressions, try-in and fitting of the final bridge.
The timeline does not cover every case. Further treatment, healing problems or changes to the plan can add time or another visit. Your dentist will confirm the sequence after assessing your scans.
Zygomatic Implant Cost in Istanbul, Turkey (2026)
The final price depends on the number of zygomatic and conventional implants, the implant system, the bridge material and any additional treatment. The table below lists indicative 2026 prices; your written quote should specify the components and services included.
| Treatment | Turkey (Istanbul) | UK (private) |
|---|---|---|
| Zygomatic implants with fixed bridge (per jaw) | £5,000 – £9,000 | £12,000 – £24,000 |
| All-on-4 (per jaw) | £2,300 – £4,600 | £10,000 – £15,000+ |
| All-on-6 (per jaw) | £3,100 – £6,200 | £12,000 – £18,000+ |
| Sinus lift | £400 – £1,150 | £500 – £2,500 |
| Bone graft (per site) | £250 – £550 | £300 – £1,000 |
Prices are indicative. Your exact cost is confirmed in a free, personalised treatment plan after we review your X-ray.
What is included in the price?
Before booking, request an itemised quote confirming the number and type of implants, the temporary bridge, the final bridge and its material. Also confirm whether scans, anaesthesia or sedation, extractions, medication and follow-up appointments are included or charged separately. Hotel accommodation and transfers should be listed separately if arranged.
What affects the cost?
| Cost factor | How it affects zygomatic implant treatment |
|---|---|
| Number of implants | A plan may combine zygomatic and conventional implants or use four zygomatic implants. |
| Implant system | The selected system changes the final treatment cost and should be named in your plan. |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia or sedation, and where it is carried out, should be clarified in the quote. |
| Prosthetic material | The temporary and final bridge materials are selected according to clinical needs, aesthetic goals and budget. |
| Additional procedures | Extractions, sinus treatment or soft-tissue procedures may increase the treatment scope. |
For a broader comparison of full-arch treatment options, see our guide to full mouth dental implants in Turkey. Your dentist will explain which options are suitable for your remaining bone.
Payment can be made in cash (USD, EUR or GBP) or by credit card. If you plan to pay by card, check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before you travel.
Benefits and Limitations
Possible benefits:
- Less need for bone grafting: The cheekbone can provide anchorage when the back of the upper jaw has too little bone. Some patients may still need additional treatment.
- Fixed teeth: The implants can support a fixed bridge rather than a removable denture.
- Earlier temporary teeth: In suitable cases, a fixed temporary bridge can be fitted within a few days of surgery.
- Shorter overall treatment: Avoiding major grafting can reduce the number of surgical stages for some patients.
Limitations:
- More complex surgery: The procedure requires advanced training, careful planning and sedation or general anaesthesia.
- Sinus-related risks: The implants pass through or beside the sinus area.
- Upper jaw only: Zygomatic implants do not treat bone loss in the lower jaw.
- Harder to treat if a problem occurs: Repair or removal may require further specialist treatment.
Risks and Complications
All implant surgery carries risks, and zygomatic surgery has some specific ones because of the structures involved. Your dentist should explain these in relation to your own anatomy:
- Sinusitis: The most commonly discussed complication. A 2023 systematic review estimated rates of about 9.5% with the original surgical technique and 4.4% with an anatomy-guided approach.
- Oroantral fistula: An abnormal opening between the mouth and sinus, estimated at about 4.6% and 1.7% in the same review.
- Soft-tissue infection: Inflammation or infection of the gum around an implant.
- Numbness: Temporary or, less commonly, lasting changes in sensation in the cheek or lip.
- Eye socket injury: A rare but serious complication. The ITI consensus statement records a small number of reported orbital penetrations.
- Implant or bridge problems: An implant may fail to bond or lose support, and a bridge may loosen, wear or break.
These figures come from published studies, not from our own patient records. Your individual risk depends on your health, anatomy and treatment plan.
How Long Do Zygomatic Implants Last?
There is no guaranteed lifespan. In the same review, reported implant survival ranged from about 90% to 100% across studies with at least six months of follow-up, but results differ by study, technique and patient. The implants and the bridge are also separate: the bridge may need repair or replacement because of wear even when the implants remain in place.
Long-term results depend on careful planning, daily cleaning, regular reviews, not smoking and managing teeth grinding. Cambridge University Hospitals explains why implants need ongoing maintenance.
Recovery and Aftercare
Swelling, bruising and discomfort are common after surgery, and bruising may reach the cheeks or around the eyes. Your dentist will advise you on pain relief, medication, cleaning and when to return for a check-up.
- Diet: Follow the soft diet your dentist recommends, and do not chew hard food until you are told it is safe.
- Cleaning: Clean as instructed, without disturbing the surgical sites. Your dentist will show you how to clean around the bridge.
- Sinus care: Ask whether you should avoid blowing your nose forcefully or flying for a set period.
- Smoking and alcohol: Avoid both during healing, as advised by your dentist.
- Return travel: Do not fly home until your dentist has confirmed that it is suitable.
Aftercare When You Return Home
Before leaving Istanbul, discuss your review schedule and make sure you have a copy of your treatment plan and implant details. Continue regular check-ups with a dentist near home. Remote messages cannot replace a clinical examination when a problem needs assessment.
When contacting our team about a concern, describe your symptoms, when they started and the date of your procedure. Ask whether an in-person examination is needed and clarify any return-visit arrangements and costs before travelling.
For questions about your Idea Dental treatment, use the details on our contact page. Seek prompt medical or dental advice if swelling or pain worsens, or if you notice fever, discharge, a sinus problem, implant movement or changes in your vision.
How to Choose a Clinic for Zygomatic Implants
Zygomatic implant surgery is recommended for experienced surgeons. Before choosing where to have treatment, make sure you:
- Know who will treat you. Ask who will perform the surgery and how much experience they have with zygomatic implants.
- Understand the anaesthesia. Ask who provides it, where it takes place and what safety arrangements are in place.
- Ask why this option is recommended. Your dentist should explain the alternatives for your case.
- Get an implant certificate showing the brand, size and batch number of every implant.
- Ask for a written, itemised quote for your treatment, with any transfers or accommodation listed separately.
- Ask about aftercare and what happens if a problem occurs after you return home.
Booking your treatment with us is simple:
- Send us your panoramic X-ray or photos of your teeth through our contact page.
- Receive your personalised treatment plan and quote, free of charge.
- Confirm your dates. Ask us about airport transfers and accommodation in Istanbul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are zygomatic implants safe?
Zygomatic implants are an established treatment, but the surgery is complex and carries risks, including sinusitis, oroantral fistula, infection and rare eye socket injury. Safety depends on your health, your anatomy, careful planning and the experience of the surgical team. Discuss the risks and alternatives before you decide.
How much do zygomatic implants cost in Turkey?
Our indicative 2026 price is £5,000–£9,000 per jaw. The final cost depends on the number of implants, the implant system, the bridge material and any additional treatment. Your written quote should confirm what is included.
Does zygomatic implant surgery hurt?
You should not feel pain during surgery, as it is carried out under general anaesthesia, or local anaesthesia with sedation. Afterwards, swelling, bruising and discomfort are common for the first days. Your dentist will advise you on pain relief. Contact your dentist if pain worsens or does not settle.
How many trips to Turkey will I need?
Treatment usually involves two trips to Istanbul, with 3–6 months of healing between them. Allow around 5–7 days for the surgical visit and 5–7 days for the final bridge. Your written plan should confirm the schedule, as additional treatment or healing problems can mean a longer stay or another visit.
Can I get teeth on the same day?
Some patients receive a fixed temporary bridge on the day of surgery or within a few days, but only if the implants are stable enough. The final bridge is fitted after healing, usually 3–6 months later.
Do zygomatic implants replace bone grafting?
They can reduce or avoid the need for major grafting in some patients with severe upper jaw bone loss, but they are not automatically the better option. Your dentist will compare grafting, angled implants and zygomatic implants using your 3D scans.
Can zygomatic implants be used in the lower jaw?
No. They are anchored in the cheekbone, so they are used in the upper jaw only. Bone loss in the lower jaw needs a different treatment plan.
Can I have zygomatic implants after failed implants?
Often this can be considered, depending on the remaining bone, any infection and the reason the previous implants failed. Your dentist will need your records and a new 3D scan before advising you.
Can I have zygomatic implants with sinus problems?
An active sinus infection or other sinus condition should be assessed and treated before surgery. Tell your dentist about any history of sinusitis or sinus surgery, as this can affect planning.
Will the implants be visible or change my face?
The implants sit beneath the gum and are not normally visible. The new bridge can change the support for your lips and cheeks. Discuss the expected appearance with your dentist during planning.
Medical Sources and Further Reading
These resources support the general information about zygomatic implants, complications, anaesthesia and maintenance on this page. They do not verify our clinic’s prices or individual patient results.
- Kämmerer PW et al., International Journal of Implant Dentistry (2023): systematic review of survival and complications with zygomatic implants.
- International Team for Implantology — Consensus statement: surgical techniques, survival and complications.
- Almeida PHT et al., Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2017): anaesthesia and sedation for zygomatic implant surgery.
- Cambridge University Hospitals — Dental implants in restorative dentistry: suitability, risks and long-term maintenance.
Get Your Free Zygomatic Implant Plan in Istanbul
Send us your panoramic X-ray or a few photos of your teeth and our implant team in Istanbul will prepare your personalised treatment plan and quote, free of charge.
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Published: October 30, 2026
