Clinical, microbiologic and radiologic assessment of soft and hard tissues surrounding zygomatic implants: a retrospective study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the clinical, microbiologic, and radiologic status of soft and hard tissues surrounding zygomatic implants.

STUDY DESIGN: Patients who had at least two zygomatic implants were eligible for the study. Their soft tissues were analyzed, and microbial samples were collected. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and orthopantomography were used to measure bone levels. The patients were also asked to complete a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) questionnaire assessing their satisfaction.

RESULTS: A total of 65 zygomatic implants placed in 20 patients were assessed. As one zygomatic implant was lost, the cumulative survival rate was 98.5%. All the prostheses were successful. Peri-implant soft tissues were generally in a healthy condition. The patients with a history of periodontitis had worse mean peri-implant clinical parameters and showed more bacterial colonization with respect to their nonperiodontal counterparts. The implant recipients had low levels of crestal and zygomatic bone loss and high VAS scores indicating their general satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS: Although zygomatic implants were confirmed to be a reliable treatment option, patients with a history of periodontitis were, nevertheless, found to have special needs, such as frequent dental hygiene sessions.