Dental implants are prosthetic replacements for tooth roots which are topped with a ceramic dental crown, restoring the functionality of damaged or lost teeth. Titanium implants have historically been utilised in the field of implantology due to their effective integration with the human jawbone. Nevertheless, zirconia has been introduced as a new implant material, emerging as a result of advancements in dental technology. The truth is that both titanium and zirconia implants have their advantages as dental implant materials. However, it is essential to consider and examine them both to choose which is best suited for you. As you read on, we will attempt to answer all your questions and guide you towards making the right decision.
Titanium and Zirconia Implants Explained
Titanium implants have been used since the 1960s to replace lost or damaged teeth. They are known to be most effective for individuals with overall good health. Due to their durability and functionality, titanium dental implants are considered the prevailing choice and the most common type of implant. Dental implants made of titanium have a long-term success rate of approximately 95%. Some patients have had their titanium dental implants in excellent condition for over 30 years. On the other hand, zirconia has not been used in dentistry long enough to fully understand its long-term success. The styles of zirconia implants are also continuously evolving. Currently, when placing Zirconia implants, most dentists use a single-piece design. However, more two-piece styles will likely emerge in the future, giving dentists more placement flexibility. Read four interesting facts about zirconia crowns on Dentakay blog.
Are Titanium and Zirconia Safe for Jawbone Implants?
Both titanium and zirconia are considered safe and biocompatible materials for dental implants. They have been approved by appropriate authorities because they interact well with the human body without causing any toxicity. Although small amounts of titanium alloy may enter the bloodstream, extensive research over the past 50 years has shown no adverse reactions. This exempts cases where the patient is allergic to a metal in the alloy. On the other hand, zirconia is also biocompatible, hypoallergenic, and does not release any substances into the bloodstream.
However, it’s important to note that regardless of the implant material, there is an increased risk of gum infection until the implant site has fully healed. Some arguments suggest that two-piece implants have a slightly higher chance of harbouring bacteria. Conversely, single-piece implants require dental cement that can also accumulate bacteria, so both options are not completely immune to plaque formation.
Can Both Materials Be Used For A Full Mouth of Replacement Teeth?
For a full arch or complete set of teeth replacement, titanium implants are generally the preferred choice. This is because titanium implants are designed in two pieces, allowing dentists more flexibility to adjust the angle of the abutment. As a result, the appearance of the smile line and the alignment of the bite can be customised to provide a more natural look and feel. In contrast, zirconia implants have limited customization options, as the abutment is fixed, restricting easy customisation of its position.
Advantages of Titanium Dental Implants
Titanium implants have been the standard choice for dental implants for many years as they have a good success rate, offering reassurance to patients. Other benefits of titanium implants include:
- Scientific Backing: Titanium implants have been extensively studied since the 1960s, and there is a wealth of scientific research supporting their effectiveness. Dental professionals can refer to peer-reviewed studies when discussing the positive outcomes of titanium implants.
- Durability: Titanium implants are strong and durable, withstanding the daily wear and tear of chewing. Despite their durability, they are still lightweight and comfortable.
- Osseointegration: A successful dental implant should fuse with the surrounding bone, becoming part of it. This process is called osseointegration.
- Reduced Sensitivity: Titanium implants have low thermal conductivity, which means they do not cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
Are Titanium Implants Best for You?
While titanium implants offer many advantages, you may have concerns about allergies or sensitivity to titanium. However, allergic reactions to titanium implants are extremely rare, affecting less than 1% of patients. If you suspect you might be allergic to titanium, it is advisable to consult with an allergist before opting for this type of implant. If you do not have any existing allergies and have sufficient bone mass in your jaw, titanium implants are likely suitable for you. In cases where there is inadequate bone mass, a bone grafting procedure may be performed before the dental implant.
Advantages of Zirconium Dental Implants
Now, let’s explore the advantages of zirconium implants, which are a non-metal alternative. Zirconium implants are an excellent choice for those concerned about metal allergies, although such allergies are extremely rare. Other benefits of zirconium implants include:
- Appearance: Zirconium implants do not cause any dark coloration to show through the gums, unlike titanium implants that may result in gum discoloration.
- Corrosion-Resistant: While zirconium implants are not as durable as titanium, they are resistant to corrosion.
- Reduced Plaque: Recent studies suggest that zirconium implants may contribute to less plaque buildup and fewer infections around the implant.
When Zirconium Implants May Not Be for You
Zirconium implants may not be suitable for everyone, and it’s important to be aware of their limitations as an alternative to traditional implants. Compared to titanium, zirconium implants have fewer design options since they are relatively new. Patients with specific circumstances may face challenges in achieving optimal results. Additionally, there is less evidence available regarding the success rates of zirconium implants. Consider that increased risk of fracture, less durability, and the fact that they are not suitable for complex implant procedures are potential drawbacks.
Given the abundance of information about both implants, it is understandable that patients often struggle to decide which material to choose. If you’re still uncertain as to which one of them is best suited for you, you may contact us for more information. You can also schedule a consultation with us today if you think you’re ready to get implants, so we can assess you and provide you with the treatment you need.
