Paulo Malo: Variation in the use of the zygoma implant in treatment planning for the edentulous maxilla

Dr. Paulo Malo discusses the variable uses of zygomatic implants in the rehabilitation of patients.  He reviews principles guiding the placement of zygomatic implants. He specifically refers to two techniques: the internal and external approaches to zygomatic implant placement.

The choice between the two techniques is determined based upon the initial diagnostic planning.  If the crest of the ridge would allow the platform of the implant to be positioned over the prosthesis, then the internal approach can be utilized.  This internal approach allows bone to surround the head of the implant sealing the communication between the head of the implant and the sinus.  If the crest of the ridge would cause the platform of the implant to be positioned buccal or palatal to the prosthesis, then the external technique should be considered.  This involves creating a channel for the zygomatic implant to partially sit in the crestal bone leaving much of the crestal aspect of the implant exposed on the buccal.

Dr. Malo shows multiple cases that demonstrate the use of zygomatic impalnts in the restoration of fully edentulous patients.  Using the guidelines and techniques discussed can help guide the treatment options available for patient care.

Prof. Malo received his dental degree from the Faculty of Dental Medicine at the University of Lisbon in 1989. He founded the MALO CLINIC in 1995 where he developed several innovative techniques, protocols and products, such as the NobelSpeedy™ implant and the All-on-4® Treatment Concept which allows the placement of fixed teeth in a single day on total edentulous patients, without the need of bone grafting. With a PhD in Oral Biology, Prof. Malo is a visiting professor for several universities, has published numerous scientific journal articles and is co-author of several textbooks. Prof. Malo lectures regularly in international conferences and has also received several distinctions and awards for his medical breakthroughs and his management, leadership and entrepreneurial skills.