Biologic Dental Implants
When it comes to replacing missing teeth with dental implants, there are two main options: titanium or ceramic. Each has their virtues, as well as limitations.
While some patients choose ceramic due to specific metal allergies or sensitivities, most biologic patients prefer them for the sake of keeping their mouth metal-free. The zirconia implants we place here at Dental Wellness of Albany are broadly biocompatible – well tolerated by nearly all patients.
What Are Zirconia Dental Implants?
Zirconia is a particular type of ceramic that’s made from a natural mineral called zirconium dioxide. It’s super strong and super durable, able to withstand the forces of biting and chewing, and is accepted well by the body.
For this reason, it’s used widely in dentistry to make crowns and other restorations, as well as implants.
Implants, themselves, serve as artificial tooth roots that we place in the jawbone to support crowns, bridges, and even full dentures.
The Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants
For biologic patients, one of the biggest benefits of using zirconia implants instead of titanium is that they are metal-free. There are no concerns with metal sensitivity or oral galvanism (electric effects that can be generated when a variety of metals are in the same mouth). There’s also no chance of corrosion releasing metal ions into the body.
But there are other benefits, too:
- Being white, zirconia is a much better mimic of natural teeth and jawbone. If your gums ever recede or get thinner, you won’t get dark shadows appearing along your gum line.
- The surface of zirconia is much smoother than titanium, which can make it harder for plaque to build up. Being less susceptible to bacterial growth, zirconia implants may also translate to healthier gums and a lower risk of a condition called peri-implantitis – infection and inflammation around an implant that can ultimately lead to implant failure.
- Zirconia is exceptionally hard and resists changing shape under pressure. It stands up well to wear and tear from the repeated forces of chewing. Dental implants made from zirconia are very durable.
- ZIrconia implants integrate well with both bone and gum tissue, which can often mean a shorter implantation process and greater comfort.
- There’s some evidence that more natural bone is retained with zirconia implants. This can enhance their stability and longevity.
Making the Right Choice for Your Mouth/Body Health
Ultimately, the choice between titanium and ceramic implants – or even to get implants at all instead of a different kind of prosthetic – is a personal one, best made through talking with us about your individual health needs and goals.
We’d be glad to sit down with you and explore your options together so you can determine which approach might work best for your unique dental health situation.
