Implants have been used in dentistry for decades with great success. However, the materials offered for dental implants have changed some over the years. Zirconia has been used in the medical field for over 20 years and is increasing in popularity as an alternative dental implant material. Much like the titanium implant predecessor, zirconia implants offer a way to replace missing teeth. However, zirconia dental implants boast a few additional benefits. Zirconia dental implants are extremely strong and durable, offering a quality solution for people who desire an attractive and metal-free alternative.
Zirconia, also known as zirconium dioxide, is a ceramic material manufactured from zirconium. Many people ask the question “how are zirconia implants really metal-free when they are derived from a metal?” Though zirconium is a metal, a chemical reaction occurs during the high-heat oxidation process, causing electrons to move from the zirconium to the oxygen molecules. This results in ceramic zirconia, which has entirely different properties compared to the metal zirconium. The process combines the strength of metal with the heat-resistance of ceramic, making ceramic zirconia implants an innovative and unique dental implant solution.
Zirconia implants are an exciting and new technology taking the dental world by storm. With the holistic and biological dentistry field on the rise, patients are taking a closer look into the dental materials used in their body and the impact it can have on overall health. Though ceramic implants function like traditional implants, the biocompatibility of zirconia makes it the preferred choice for patients who are weary about the effects of putting metal into their mouth and body. Though there is much debate on which is the superior dental implant material, there are certainly some benefits of choosing ceramic zirconia.
1. Zirconia Implants are Metal-Free and Hypoallergenic
Zirconia Implant Dentistry has become more popular because zirconia is a biocompatible and bioinert ceramic material that completely integrates into jawbone without reacting with the human body. Zirconia implants are the best option for people with compromised immune systems, metal allergies, sensitivities, or those who prefer biocompatible dental materials.
2. Zirconia is Corrosion Resistant
Because zirconia implants are metal-free, they do not risk corrosion from being in a wet environment like the mouth. Though titanium is a stable element, it can corrode over time, causing tiny particles to break off and deposit into surrounding tissues. With zirconia, there is no risk of inflammation, infection, or bone loss due to corrosion.
3. Zirconia Implants Integrate Well with Bone
The success of a dental implant often depends on the integration process as the implant fuses to the jawbone. When the bone “rejects” an implant, there are complications, and the implant often fails. Zirconia implants have a good track record for successful integration with the jawbone.
4. Zirconia Implants Help Avoid Plaque Buildup
A non-polar structure creates a smooth finish to ceramic, making it difficult for plaque and other bacteria to attach themselves to zirconia dental implants. This helps to prevent implant failure due to bacteria and inflammation.
5. Zirconia is Aesthetically Pleasing
A frequent problem with zirconia implants is for patients with thin, translucent gums, or those experiencing gum recession who may end up with gray gums or metal showing around the crown margin. The non-metallic white color of zirconia gives it a more natural look than titanium. It’s a perfect base color that closely mimics what nature created in the first place.
What are Zirconia Implants?
Zirconia, also known as zirconium dioxide, is a ceramic material manufactured from zirconium. Though zirconium is a metal, a chemical reaction occurs during the high-heat oxidation process, causing electrons to move from the zirconium to the oxygen molecules. This results in ceramic zirconia, which has entirely different properties compared to the metal zirconium. The process combines the strength of metal with the heat-resistance of ceramic, making ceramic zirconia implants an innovative and unique dental implant solution.
Are Zirconia Implants Safe?
Zirconia implants are a safe and metal-free alternative to titanium implants. Zirconia is non-corrosive and biocompatible making it possibly the safest implant material option.
What Are The Differences Between Titanium and Zirconia Implants?
The biggest disadvantage of zirconia dental implants is that many dentists do not offer zirconia. Titanium was the primary dental implant material for years, so it can be difficult to find a dentist who is experienced with placing zirconia implants. There are many advantages of zirconia dental implants, but it is best to discuss with an implant dentist to decide which material option is best for your individual needs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to dental implants, each case is different.
The inherent problem that frequently arises with Titanium Dental Implants is an aesthetic one. Patients with thin, translucent gums or those who are prone to gum recession (as are many aging people) may end up with the gray gums or titanium showing around the margin of the crown. Since zirconia is non-metallic and white, it is much more natural looking than titanium. It’s a perfect base color that closely mimics what nature created in the first place. The color of Zirconium makes cosmetics a lot easier for the Zirconia Implant Dentist.
A metal aura is visible around the gum line of the two upper front teeth with metal/ceramic crowns. In addition to aesthetic issues, the teeth were deemed Root Canal failures. The surgical treatment plan included two tooth extractions and the immediate Dental Implant placement of Zirconia Implants. After healing, all-ceramic crowns were placed onto the Dental Implants, and the final result is a beautiful, natural, Metal-Free Smile.
Are Zirconia Implants Strong?
Zirconia is an incredibly high-strength ceramic with high resistance to heat and fracture. Zirconia can withstand up to 150 pounds of force.
Are Zirconia Implants Metal-Free?
Yes. Though derived from the metal zirconium, through the process of high heat oxidation the properties of the element change, making Zirconia non-metal and non-conductive.
Am I a Candidate for Ceramic Implants?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. This answer to this question will be determined through the proper scans as well as the review of medical and dental history during your implant consultation.
Deciding which dental material to choose is best discussed between you and your Implant Dentist during a dental implant consultation. Your implant surgeon can help you determine whether you are a candidate for dental implants and weigh the pros and cons of titanium implants vs ceramic zirconia implants. Whichever material you choose, it is most important to find an experienced dental implant surgeon to help with your implant needs.
At Natural Dentist Associates in Rockville, MD, we have been placing and restoring dental implants for over 20 years. Our dentists have completed rigorous training by top implant specialists at the world-renowned Swiss BioHealth Academy in Switzerland. With state-of-the-art technology, well-trained staff , and high quality SDS Swiss Dental Solutions science and evidence-based ceramic implants, we are well-equipped to help you through all stages of the dental implant process. From tooth extraction, to natural bone grafting, to implant placement, to implant crown, Natural Dentist Associates is your one-stop-shop for ceramic zirconia dental implants. Schedule your implant consultation below.
We serve primarily Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Wheaton, Potomac, DC, Gaithersburg, Kensington, Germantown, Burtonsville, Laurel, Columbia and Northern Virginia ( Mclean, Tysons Corner, Great Falls, Arlington ) but people travel from all over the country for our specialty and Holistic Dental Services.