A dental implant replaces the root of a tooth. Most dental implants are made of titanium, a gray metal material. A zirconia implant is made of a natural white material and is metal-free. We believe the metal-free, zirconia implant has many advantages over the more traditional titanium implant:
- Zirconia is a white, tooth-colored material. Titanium is a gray metal material.
- Zirconia is made of the second hardest material found in nature (next to the diamond).
- Zirconia retains less plaque and calculus than titanium, therefore decreasing risk of infection.
- A zirconia implant causes little to no inflammation and allow for high levels of attachment.
- A zirconia implant does not corrode and will not affect taste in the mouth.
- Because it has a rough surface texture, zirconia integrates well into the jawbone.
- The success of dental implants depends on the ability of the implant to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue.
- A zirconia implant is considered more durable than a titanium implant.
- A zirconia implant is brilliant white and gives a natural look instead of the dark line that appears with a titanium implant.
- A titanium implant constantly releases metal ions into the mouth. Dissimilar metals (titanium, mercury, gold) in the mouth can cause unexplained pain, nerve shocks, ulcerations, and inflammation. This chronic exposure can also trigger hypersensitivity and allergies.
- A zirconia implant system is one piece. The insertion of the implant and abutment is completed in one surgical appointment. The titanium implant and abutment is completed in two surgical appointments.
- At present, there are no known allergic responses to zirconia implants. Between 5-12% of the population is allergic to titanium.
- Zirconia implants offer numerous advantages, including superior biocompatibility, enhanced aesthetics, and excellent mechanical properties.
Interest in dental implants is growing, as patients seek an alternative to removable dentures, bridgework, and the preparation of uninvolved teeth.