Pterygoid Implants in Full-Arch Rehabilitation — Expanding Treatment Possibilities
Advanced Solutions for Patients with Upper Jaw Bone Loss in Toronto and North York
When patients have lost significant bone in the upper jaw (maxilla), traditional dental implants may not be possible without major bone grafting or sinus lifts.
For these complex cases, pterygoid implants provide a reliable alternative — allowing for fixed, full-arch restorations without grafts, sinus augmentation, or extended healing times.
At Implant Dentistry Toronto, Dr. Onur Cavus, BDS, PhD, applies this technique to help patients regain strong, stable, and functional smiles, even in cases previously considered unsuitable for implants.
What Are Pterygoid Implants?
Pterygoid implants are long dental implants placed in the dense bone of the pterygoid region, located behind the upper jaw near the maxillary tuberosity and the pterygoid plates of the sphenoid bone.
This region provides exceptional bone density and anchorage, ideal for supporting the back of a full-arch prosthesis.
Unlike conventional implants, which rely on the alveolar ridge, pterygoid implants are anchored in remote, cortical bone, bypassing areas of resorption or sinus pneumatization.
How Pterygoid Implants Work
During surgery, the implant is placed at a 45°–55° posterior angle, extending from the maxillary tuberosity into the pterygoid plate.
Because this bone is dense, it provides excellent primary stability — often strong enough to allow immediate loading (placement of a temporary fixed bridge on the same day).
This approach eliminates the need for:
Extensive bone grafting
Sinus lift procedures
Prolonged healing before prosthetic restoration
Clinical Advantages of Pterygoid Implants
Avoids sinus grafting: Ideal for patients with pneumatized sinuses or limited vertical bone.
Expands the antero-posterior spread: Reduces prosthetic cantilevers and stress on anterior implants.
High bone density: Provides excellent primary stability, supporting immediate restoration.
Preserves anterior bone: Enables more esthetic results by maintaining bone in the smile zone.
Predictable long-term outcomes: Supported by multiple studies demonstrating high survival rates.
Pterygoid Implants in the PATZI Protocol
Pterygoid implants play a central role in the PATZI protocol — a modern, algorithmic approach for managing severely atrophic maxillae using Pterygoid, Anterior, Tilted, and Zygomatic implants.
Dr. Onur Cavus emphasizes that the pterygoid step is often the key determinant of a predictable, graft-free full-arch plan.
When adequate anchorage can be achieved in the pterygoid region, the need for zygomatic implants or extensive grafting is significantly reduced.
(Read more about the PATZI protocol in our dedicated article: Understanding the PATZI Protocol →)
Surgical Planning and Technology
Each case begins with 3D CBCT imaging to evaluate:
Maxillary sinus pneumatization
Pterygoid plate thickness and angulation
Relationship to adjacent anatomical landmarks
Digital planning allows precise angulation and length determination for safe, accurate placement — typically using long implants (18–22 mm) and guided or freehand microsurgical technique.
Who Can Benefit from Pterygoid Implants?
This approach is particularly useful for patients who:
Have advanced bone loss in the posterior maxilla
Wish to avoid sinus lift or grafting procedures
Need fixed full-arch restoration (All-on-X or PATZI)
Have previously been told they’re “not candidates” for implants
Are Pterygoid Implants Safe?
Yes — when performed by an experienced surgeon with 3D imaging guidance, pterygoid implants are both safe and predictable.
Complications are rare, and postoperative discomfort is generally mild and manageable with routine care.
Answers to Questions about Pterygoid Implants
1. What makes pterygoid implants different from regular implants?
They’re placed in dense bone behind the upper jaw, offering strong posterior support without sinus grafting.
2. Do pterygoid implants hurt more than regular implants?
No — they’re placed under local anesthesia or IV sedation. Most patients experience similar or less discomfort than conventional implant procedures.
3. How long do pterygoid implants last?
With proper care, they can last decades. Studies show long-term survival rates above 95%.
4. Can pterygoid implants be combined with All-on-4 or PATZI protocols?
Yes — they often complement these systems, expanding stability and reducing cantilever stress.
5. Am I a candidate for pterygoid implants?
A CBCT scan and full evaluation are needed to determine bone availability and suitability.
Why Choose Dr. Onur Cavus
Dr. Cavus combines over 18 years of surgical experience with advanced training in implantology and oral surgery.
His Toronto and North York-based practice emphasizes evidence-based protocols, precision planning, and patient-centered comfort, including IV sedation for surgical cases.
Book Your Consultation
If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for implants — or you want to explore advanced options such as pterygoid or zygomatic implants — schedule your consultation with Dr. Onur Cavus today.
📍 Current Location: Dentalship, 4750 Yonge St Suite 322, North York, ON M2N 0J6
📞 Call (437) 808-0888 or Contact Us →
