Wwe are excited to announce that Dr. Harmon has recently completed an advanced surgical training program in Brazil — the Professor Vanderlim Transnasal Zygoma 5-Day Residency. This world-renowned program, led by zygomatic implant pioneer Professor Vanderlim, is a premier international course that brings together some of the best minds in oral implantology. Held in São Paulo, Brazil, this immersive residency focuses on the complex and highly specialized field of zygomatic and transnasal implant surgery — a life-changing solution for patients with severe maxillary bone loss.
Throughout the five-day program, Dr. Harmon received hands-on surgical experience in advanced implant protocols that are often considered the final option for patients who have been told they’re no longer candidates for dental implants. By training directly under Professor Vanderlim, who is widely recognized as a global authority in zygomatic and transnasal implantology, Dr. Harmon expanded his knowledge in planning and executing complex full-arch restorations using extra-maxillary anchorage techniques. The program included intensive lectures, cadaver dissection labs, and live surgeries on real patients, providing unparalleled experience in this highly technical area of oral rehabilitation.
What Are Zygomatic Implants — and Who Are They For?
Zygomatic implants are a highly specialized type of dental implant used in cases where there is severe upper jaw bone loss, often due to long-term tooth loss, gum disease, trauma, or previous failed dental work. Unlike traditional implants that anchor into the jawbone, zygomatic implants are longer and are anchored in the zygomatic bone — commonly known as the cheekbone. This bone is denser and more structurally stable than the upper jaw (maxilla), allowing implants to remain secure even when traditional implants are not an option.
Patients who have worn dentures for years, or who have been turned away by other dental professionals due to extreme bone loss, are often excellent candidates for this technique. Additionally, zygomatic implants can eliminate the need for bone grafting or sinus lifts, which often add months to the treatment timeline. This makes the procedure not only less invasive in the long run but also far more efficient. With today’s surgical advancements — especially those taught by Professor Vanderlim — patients can often receive full-arch fixed teeth in just one day, dramatically reducing discomfort and wait time.
By completing this advanced residency, Dr. Harmon can now offer transnasal and quad zygomatic implant solutions with more precision, confidence, and predictability than ever before. His ability to treat highly complex cases means patients no longer need to travel out of state to receive top-tier zygomatic implant care.
How Dr. Harmon’s Training Benefits Patients at Harmon Dental Center
Dr. Harmon’s recent experience in Brazil is more than a personal achievement — it’s a significant advancement for the entire Harmon Dental Center community. With zygomatic implant training from one of the most respected experts in the field, Dr. Harmon can now treat patients with the most complex cases of upper jaw bone loss using the latest surgical techniques and technologies. This means fewer referrals, fewer surgeries, and fewer delays for patients who previously had limited options.
For patients who have been told they are “not candidates” for implants or have been struggling with ill-fitting dentures, this residency opens new doors. Dr. Harmon now brings a world-class level of expertise right to our community, offering transformative results with less recovery time and fewer complications. The residency has also equipped him with advanced planning tools, including 3D surgical navigation and extra-maxillary implant pathways, which lead to more accurate outcomes and higher success rates.
At Harmon Dental Center, we are committed to providing comprehensive care with compassion, expertise, and innovation. Dr. Harmon’s dedication to continuing education ensures that our practice remains at the forefront of implant dentistry, ready to serve patients of all needs — from straightforward cases to the most advanced full-mouth restorations. If you’ve been told that implants aren’t possible, it’s time to get a second opinion from someone who’s trained at the highest level.
