Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. They work by replacing the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for a wide range of benefits, including additional stability, comfort, and longevity. In many cases, dental implants are made from titanium, but did you know that there is a metal-free alternative option out there? Continue reading to learn about zirconia dental implants and how they work.
Why Are Patients Steering Away from Titanium Dental Implants?
In the past, dental implants usually consist of a porcelain crown attached to a titanium, screw-like dental implant that is implanted in the jaw. Titanium has been used for many decades now thanks to its benefits. This metal is known to be durable, resistant to tarnishing, and integrates well into the jawbone for a sturdy, stable restoration.
The main problem with titanium is that it can be broken down if a bacterial infection occurs. This releases the metal into the surrounding skin, resulting in inflammation and irritation. This type of infection is called peri-implantitis and affects the soft tissue surrounding the dental implant. When left to progress, it can result in bone loss and dental implant failure.
Why Is Zirconia the Better Alternative?
With more research being done about titanium dental implants, many patients are choosing zirconia as an alternative. Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is just as durable and biocompatible as titanium. The main advantage is that studies have shown that bacteria have a more difficult time sticking to zirconia dental implants than titanium. Ultimately, zirconia dental implants are less likely to be impacted by peri-implantitis, giving you a better shot of dental implant success.
4 Other Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants
In addition to being more resistant to bacterial infections, zirconia dental implants have numerous benefits. Here are some of the most prominent.
- Zirconia is white in color, so they match the restoration.
- Titanium rarely causes allergic reactions. However, since zirconia is so biocompatible, patients are even less likely to react negatively to their tooth replacement.
- Metal-free dental implants mean that you can avoid any metallic tastes associated with them.
- Plaque doesn’t stick as well to zirconia, so you are less likely to experience gum inflammation from plaque deposits.
Titanium dental implants are great, but zirconia can offer additional benefits that you can’t find elsewhere. If you are interested in replacing your missing teeth with a metal-free dental implant, schedule a consultation with your dentist. You’ll be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Michael O’Brien earned his dental doctorate from the University of Las Vegas Nevada School of Dental Medicine. Since then, he has received advanced training in dental implants from the Misch Resnik International Implant Institute and become a Fellow of the International College of Oral Implantologists. To learn more about zirconia dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Tulsa, visit his website or call (918) 477-9000.