500,000 Americans invest in dental implants every year because they offer exceptional benefits not possible using other methods. A dental implant replaces both the tooth root and the crown. A post is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a new root. Your bone fuses with it through a process called osseointegration. Once your bone has healed, an all-ceramic restoration is attached using an abutment. Your implant will be the foundation for your new tooth, so it’s important to choose the right material. Although titanium is the standard material, implants can also be made of zirconia. Here’s how to choose the right material for your investment.
Pros and Cons of Titanium Implant Posts
Titanium has been the go-to material for dental implants since the mid-1960s. A Swedish orthopedic surgeon discovered that bone integrates with titanium, which revolutionized the dental implant procedure.
Titanium is a popular material because the implants come in two-piece variations, which can provide better positioning. Patients with titanium implants experience a significantly lower risk of failure when compared to zirconia. It is also lightweight, durable, and has a high resistance to corrosion. It’s a biocompatible material, so there’s little risk of allergic reactions.
Although allergic reactions are rare, they can occur. Patients with certain autoimmune conditions shouldn’t use titanium because metal ions released for the implant can cause irritation and inflammation. In some cases, the gum tissue near the post can darken.
Pros and Cons of Zirconia Dental Implants
Zirconia is a metal-free option to replace a missing tooth. An implant is constructed in one piece, so you won’t have to pay for each separate component. Zirconia is also biocompatible and also has a low bacterial attraction. Although it doesn’t contain any metals, it is strong and has a minimal risk of fracturing. It can also hold up well against corrosion and may provide more aesthetically pleasing results.
While zirconia has its benefits, it can deteriorate and crack over time. It’s not recommended for patients with a habit of grinding or clenching their teeth because it can weaken the material. Although more research is needed, zirconia may have a slightly higher failure rate than titanium.
Which Material is the Best?
Choosing a material for your dental implant isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your implant dentist will examine your mouth and learn more about your preferences to determine which material is best for you. They’ll help you make an educated decision to feel confident in the material you’re choosing.
About Dr. John A. Kivus
Dr. Kivus achieved his dental degree from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and has continued his training to provide advanced services, like reconstructive and cosmetic dentistry. He is also an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of New England College of Dental Medicine. Request an appointment through his website or call (207) 253-5600.