Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, thanks to their versatility and high success rate. Dental implants are manufactured from metals, zirconia/ceramic, or a combination of materials safe for use in the human body.
Titanium
Titanium dental implants are the most popular type of dental implant introduced in the mid-1980s. A titanium implant is a tooth root replacement surgery performed by a dentist that eventually fuses with the jawbone to create osseointegration. This process takes about six months to complete. The implant serves as a long-term anchor for artificial teeth.
After your dentist determines that the implant has properly fused with your jawbone, an abutment will be added to the top of the implant to which prosthetic teeth are subsequently attached.
Zirconia/Ceramic
Zirconia is a metal-free ceramic substance that has been used in dentistry for more than 20 years. It's biocompatible and has flexural strength, making it a good alternative for dental implants.
The goal of this type of implant was to minimize the adverse effects of metal implants, such as sensitivity and allergic reactions.
Zirconia/ceramic implants are entirely metal-free since they are made from a single ceramic piece. Because this sort of implant is relatively recent compared to titanium implants, limited long-term durability data is available. The most common complication with Zirconia implants is fracture of the implant.
Porcelain-on-Zirconia
Zirconia-based implants are a newer type of implant composed of zirconium oxide. The zirconia is covered with porcelain to match the appearance of the patient's natural teeth more closely.
In some patients, titanium implants have been associated with allergic reactions and inflammation. The use of zirconia as an implant material eliminates the need for titanium. However, because of its proven strength and durability, titanium has long been one of the most popular materials used in dental implants.
Titanium implants have been linked to allergic reactions and inflammation in some patients. The use of zirconia as an implant material eliminates the need for titanium. Nevertheless, titanium remains one of the most popular materials used in dental implants.
Although porcelain-on-zirconia implants have demonstrated long-term success in clinical trials, they are still relatively new and unproven compared to titanium.
Comparing the Types of Implants
The most common metal used in all types of bone and plate replacements is titanium. Titanium has been thoroughly tested and proved safe, efficient, and versatile in medical and dental applications.
Titanium dental implants are made up of two parts. A titanium dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone to secure a replacement tooth or teeth. The replacement tooth is connected to an abutment, which sits above the implant and connects it to the prosthetic tooth.
Unlike dental implants composed of titanium, zirconia/ceramic or porcelain-on-zirconia implants are almost always produced as a single component. The post and abutment are combined into a single unit, lowering the chance of germs spreading to the gums.
Despite this benefit, zirconia/ceramic and porcelain-on-zirconia dental implants haven’t acquired the same widespread acceptance and use as titanium implants because they've been available for a comparatively short time.
Despite the benefits, zirconia/ceramic and porcelain-on-zirconia dental implants haven't achieved the same popularity or use as titanium implants because they've been on the market for a comparatively short period of time.
Your dentist will recommend the implant materials that are most appropriate for you.
High-Quality Dental Implants to Last a Lifetime
The success of a dental implant depends on the material used and the dentist's skill.
Dr. Golia will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether dental implants are the proper restoration for you and will recommend that option only if it has a good chance of success. Dr. Golia will then refer you to an experienced surgeon to expertly select and place your dental implant for excellent results.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.