Zygomatic, Pterygoid and Customized Implants: Expanding Possibilities for Severely Atrophic Posterior Maxilla

In-Person & Remote

Course Description

Severe atrophy of the jaws presents one of the greatest challenges in implant dentistry. Conventional grafting techniques may be unpredictable, invasive, or require extended healing times, limiting treatment options for patients with advanced bone resorption. This intensive two-day CE program explores the transformative role of zygomatic, pterygoid, and customized CAD/CAM patient-specific implants in expanding treatment possibilities for these complex cases. Each of these implants exploit the existing bone in key sites (zygoma, pterygoid plate, or jaw surface topography) to anchor implants securely.

Through lectures, case reviews, and immersive hands-on workshops, participants will gain a deep understanding of the biological principles, surgical techniques, prosthetic workflows, and digital innovations that make these advanced therapies both predictable and safe. Internationally recognized experts will share evidence-based protocols and clinical pearls, equipping attendees with the knowledge and skills to integrate these advanced implant strategies into daily practice.

By the end of the program, participants will have familiarity to critically evaluate patient cases, select the appropriate surgical and prosthetic approach, and implement digital workflows to streamline treatment for patients with severely resorbed jaws.

Educational Objectives

• Evaluate clinical and radiographic criteria for treatment planning in severely atrophic jaws.
• Identify patients best suited for zygomatic, pterygoid, or customized CAD/CAM patient-specific implants versus grafting alternatives.
• Recognize surgical anatomy, key landmarks, and safe approaches for implant placement in the zygomatic and pterygoid regions.
• Master flap designs that ensure visibility, minimize morbidity, and preserve vascularity.
• Understand biomechanical principles and implant design features critical to long-term stability.
• Follow step-by-step surgical protocols for implant placement, including drilling sequences, angulations, and fixation strategies.
• Understand the role of soft tissue management for long-term stability of implants.
• Plan prosthetic rehabilitation with consideration of immediate vs. delayed loading protocols.
• Master impression techniques, prosthetic material selection, and restorative design for unconventional anchorage.
• Apply advanced prosthetic workflows, including photogrammetry and digital scanning, for accuracy and efficiency.
• Integrate CBCT, intraoral scanning, and virtual planning into clinical decision-making.
• Apply CAD/CAM workflows for customized patient-specific implants and prosthetic components.
• Identify intraoperative and postoperative complications unique to zygomatic, pterygoid, and patient-specific implants.
• Implement preventive strategies and management protocols to optimize patient safety and long-term outcomes.
• Gain practical exposure through simulated surgical and prosthetic exercises in hands-on workshops.

Speakers

Dr. Shuaib Malik

Dr. Tirakhsh Emadi

Dan Holtzclaw

Dr. Dan Holtzclaw is a Diplomate of both the American Board of Periodontology and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Holtzclaw has published over 60 articles in peer reviewed journals and has authored multiple textbooks specific to full arch remote anchorage dental implant treatment. Dr. Holtzclaw served as the Editor-In-Chief of the Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry for 13 years and adjunct faculty for the Periodontal Residency Program at the United States Navy Post Graduate Dental School. After selling his private practice, which was dedicated to complex full arch implantology, he served as Director of Fixed Arch Services for Affordable Care LLC, a dental service organization with over 425 clinics in 42 states. Currently, Dr. Holtzclaw serves as President of Holzklau Full Arch Dental Implant Consulting Services.

Course Schedule

Saturday, November 7, 2026

8:00 – 5:00

Sunday, November 8, 2026

8:00 – 5:00