Pterygoid Implants
Fixed dental implants when there is no upper jaw bone
What are pterygoid implants?
Pterygoid implants are long dental implants placed in the pterygoid process, a deep, very dense bone area in the posterior upper jaw. This region provides excellent primary stability, even in patients with significant bone loss.
Unlike traditional implants, pterygoid implants are placed with a specific angulation, anchoring in high-quality bone and allowing fixed prostheses without prior regeneration.
This is a proven technique used in advanced implantology and supported by scientific literature when correctly indicated and performed by experienced professionals.
Who are pterygoid implants indicated for?
This type of advanced implant is indicated for:
- Patients with severe lack of upper jaw bone.
- People with advanced bone atrophy.
- Patients advised to undergo maxillary sinus lift who want an alternative.
- Full upper-arch rehabilitation cases.
- Complex cases where conventional implants cannot be placed.
- Patients who want fixed teeth without bone grafts.
A prior dental CBCT study and 3D digital planning are essential to confirm whether this technique is appropriate in each case.
Pterygoid vs zygomatic implants: are they the same?
No. Although often mentioned together, pterygoid and zygomatic implants are not the same, even though both are used in patients without bone.
- Pterygoid implants: anchored in the pterygoid area of the upper jaw.
- Zygomatic implants: anchored in the zygomatic bone (cheekbone).
In many advanced treatments, both techniques are combined to achieve complete, stable rehabilitation without bone grafts. Selection depends on anatomy, available bone, and individual planning.
Pterygoid implant price
The price depends on:
- Case complexity.
- Number of implants needed.
- Whether they are combined with zygomatic implants.
- Final prosthesis type.
As guidance, prices usually range between €2,000 and €3,000 per implant, higher than conventional implants due to technical complexity.
After the initial study, we provide a fixed, personalized quote.
Opinions on pterygoid implants
Opinions are usually very positive, especially among patients who had no other option for fixed teeth.
Patients value:
- Avoiding bone grafts.
- Recovering chewing function.
- Prosthesis stability.
- Functional and aesthetic results.
It is essential that treatment is performed by a team with advanced implantology experience.
At MAG Dental Madrid we specialize in full-mouth implant rehabilitations
— Dr. Alejandro Prieto
Advantages of pterygoid implants
- Allow fixed dental implants when there is no bone.
- Avoid bone grafts and maxillary sinus lift.
- High primary stability.
- Possibility of same-day fixed teeth in many cases.
- Reduced total treatment time.
- Excellent option for full-mouth rehabilitation.
- Alternative to zygomatic implants in selected cases.
Disadvantages, risks, and possible complications
Pterygoid implants are an advanced technique and present limitations that should be understood:
- Technically complex surgery.
- Requires highly specialized surgeons.
- Not indicated for all patients.
- Surgical risks similar to other advanced implant techniques.
Among uncommon complications:
- Post-operative inflammation.
- Temporary discomfort.
- Implant failure in very specific cases.
Failure is uncommon when diagnosis and planning are correct.
Pterygoid implants: before and after
Pterygoid implants allow patients to move from edentulism or unstable prostheses to fixed teeth, even with severe bone atrophy.
Book your free consultation today
If you have been told you do not have enough bone for implants, pterygoid implants may be an effective, durable solution.
In your first free visit, we provide:
- Complete study
- Free dental CBCT
- Personalized diagnosis
- Clear explanation of all treatment options for your case
Meet the team
MAG Dental Madrid
Multidisciplinary team
At MAG Dental Madrid we have a multidisciplinary team specializing in dental implants, fixed dentures on implants with immediate loading, and high-aesthetic dental veneers.
The team is led by Dr. Alejandro Prieto, an internationally renowned implant surgeon, expert in full-mouth implants and high-aesthetic dental results. We have an exclusive dental laboratory, allowing us to control every phase internally for quality, precision, and predictable outcomes.
Our goal: natural, stable, and long-lasting results for every patient.
Transformation stories
Dental implant treatment
If you have ever been told your case has no solution, at MAG Dental Madrid we push the limits of dentistry to offer the answer you were looking for.
Frequently asked questions
No. It is placed under local anesthesia or conscious sedation. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild.
It depends on each case. Pterygoid implants can avoid zygomatic implants in many patients, but selection depends on anatomy and digital planning.
Initial recovery is usually quick, with progressive return to normal life.
Yes, when they are properly indicated and performed by advanced implantology specialists.
Pterygoid implants are ideal for patients with little upper jaw bone. At MAG Dental Madrid they can avoid grafts and provide fixed teeth by using denser and more stable bone zones.
Patients with upper jaw bone loss may receive pterygoid implants without sinus lift. Each case is evaluated to provide safe solutions without additional surgery.
With pterygoid implants, fixed teeth in one day are possible in many cases. Digital planning allows fast, functional rehabilitation with natural aesthetics.
Treatment with pterygoid implants can be completed in a few days in selected cases. Timelines are optimized after personalized diagnosis.
See the transformation
Smile image changes are planned with care and nuance, for natural results that preserve overall balance and facial harmony.
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Discover the difference
At MAG Dental Madrid we combine art, technology, and maximum precision to design unique, authentic, and fully personalized smiles.
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