Dental professionals have been placing dental implants since the 1960s. Since then, technology has greatly improved, making the procedure easier, cheaper, and more accessible. Modern dental implants are safe, effective and durable, and research shows that they are the best option for replacing one or more missing teeth.
If you’ve talked to your dentist recently, you’ll know that there are two main options when it comes to dental implants: titanium and zirconia. So which is the best option for you?
We discuss the pros and cons of these options in this blog to help you make the right decision. Titanium implants
Titanium is traditionally used, for good reason. Titanium dental implants have low wear and high corrosion resistance. Other benefits of titanium dental implants include:
Biocompatibility: This means that the body will not reject the implant because it does not recognize the substance as a foreign invader. Titanium is often used in other medical devices such as heart valves, bone screws, and artificial hips. Ossification ability: Osseointegration is the process of bonding titanium to bone tissue. Titanium can penetrate the jaw bone well. Low temperature: extreme temperature changes from eating cold food such as ice cream or hot food such as soup will not cause irritation in the area of the implant or implant.
High success rate: The success rate of titanium dental implants is 97%. When considering your dental implant options, it’s important to know all aspects, including any potential drawbacks or risks. The pros and cons of titanium dental implants include:
Metal allergy: In rare cases, titanium implants fail because the patient has a metal allergy. Patients with a history of allergies should undergo metal allergy testing before being treated with titanium.
Local inflammation: Patients with autoimmune diseases such as arthritis, Chron’s disease and diabetes may experience local inflammation and irritation from iron ions released from the implant. Disadvantages: The gum tissue around the implant can make the metal appear dark.
Zirconia dental implants
A new dental implant material, zirconia, was introduced in 2011. It is an effective iron-free alternative for patients who are concerned about the effects of iron on their bodies, have autoimmune diseases, or have iron allergies.
Zirconia offers many benefits including:
Biocompatibility: Like titanium, the body will not recognize zirconia as foreign. Therefore, failure or allergic reaction is not possible.
Low Bacterial Acidity: Zirconia is less susceptible to mold formation, effectively promoting oral health, especially periodontal health. High strength: Zirconia is almost as strong as titanium implants. To compensate for the low resistance, zirconia implants are more common than titanium. Aesthetic: Unlike titanium implants, zirconia blends well with the natural tooth color, so patients with gum tissue do not have to worry about the implant showing through the gums.
Advantages of zirconia dental implants include:
Cost: Zirconia implants are slightly more expensive than titanium implants. The amount varies from place to place and from dental office to dental office. Talk to your dentist about the difference between these two implants. No long-term data: Since zirconia is a new dental implant material, there are no long-term studies to determine the lifespan of zirconia implants. However, there is a four-year study that shows that one brand of zirconia absorbs up to 99.4%. Fracture risk: Since zirconia is not as strong as titanium, the risk of fracture is slightly higher.
Titanium vs Zirconia Dental Implants: Overview
In summary, titanium and zirconia are effective and safe dental implant options. What is best for your smile and overall health is up to you and your dentist.
Zirconia is the best choice for patients who suffer from metal allergies, autoimmune diseases, need a complete option, or are concerned about titanium coming out below the gum line. Titanium dental implants may be suitable for patients on a budget looking for a reliable and durable option.
Contact our dentist today
If you have one or more missing teeth, there is no doubt that dental implants are the best tooth replacement option. Our experienced dentist can discuss your options, procedures, and treatments, so you can make the best decisions for your mouth and overall health. Call us today to schedule an initial consultation.