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Zirconia Implants

What Are Zirconia Implants?

Zirconia, derived from zircon, is a ceramic material composed of Zirconium and Oxygen. Combining the strength of metal with the heat resistance of ceramics, it’s an excellent choice for dental implants. Its bioinert nature means it won’t cause reactions, migrate, or corrode, making it a safe alternative to titanium. Plus, its natural white color is preferred by many patients.

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Zirconia vs. Titanium Implants: Which Is Better?

Zirconia implants, with their natural white color, offer distinct advantages over traditional titanium implants. While titanium has long been the standard choice, zirconia’s aesthetic appeal and other unique benefits make it a compelling option to consider.

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Overview of Zirconium Implants

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Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia implants offer advantages due to their material properties, lacking certain drawbacks found in metal implants.

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  • They’re Hypoallergenic

    If you experience sensitivity or allergies to titanium, it could lead to implant failure. Zirconia, on the other hand, is hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of post-surgery complications.

  • Zirconia boasts corrosion resistance

    Zirconia is corrosion-free and bioinert, meaning it stays put and won’t move to other parts of your body. On the other hand, titanium can corrode in moist environments like the mouth. Certain adjacent materials and toothpaste formulations can speed up this corrosion process.

  • Zirconium Implants Are Very Strong

    Zirconia exhibits exceptional durability and resistance to pressure, making it an ideal choice for dental implants capable of withstanding the considerable force exerted by jaw muscles during chewing. While zirconia implants excel in mimicking the strength of natural teeth, caution may be warranted in their placement, particularly in the posterior region, until further long-term studies are conducted.

  • Bone Integration

    Dental implant success relies on how well the implant bonds with the bone. Bone rejection can cause issues. Zirconia has a good track record for integration, improving soft tissue health around the implant more than titanium.

  • Zirconium Aids in Reducing Plaque Accumulation

    Ceramic surfaces are smooth, making it hard for plaque to stick without irregularities. Zirconia’s non-polar structure also decreases bacterial adhesion, improving oral hygiene with zirconium implants.

  • Prevent Metallic Taste Using Zirconia Dental Implants

    Not only can you feel the presence of a titanium implant, but you may also experience a metallic taste attributed to its corrosion. In contrast, zirconia implants are tasteless, offering a more pleasant experience devoid of any metallic flavor.

  • Faster Healing Time

    As a non-metallic material, zirconia does not conduct heat, which is advantageous for your gums, particularly during the healing process.

  • Aesthetic Advantage

    Titanium implants frequently lead to gum discoloration, as the silver color of the metal can stain the gums, particularly noticeable if the implant is located in the visible smile zone. However, with zirconia’s white and non-corrosive material, this issue is completely avoided.

Disadvantage of
Zirconia Dental Implants

While zirconia may seem impeccably ideal, it possesses its share of drawbacks. Familiarizing yourself with the shortcomings of zirconia is essential for making well-informed decisions regarding your dental health.

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  • Fewer Dentists Offer Them

    Finding dentists who offer zirconia implants can be difficult as zirconium dentistry is less common than titanium. It’s important to search for nearby dentists offering this option. Additionally, zirconia implants are relatively new in the US dental market, having been introduced in 2019.

  • Are Zirconia Implants Safe?

    Absolutely! Zirconia has non-corrosive and nonallergic properties. So, it may actually be safer and more beneficial to the patient than any other dental material. Titanium on the other hand, can corrode in the wet environment of the mouth. Which can lead to serious complications.

  • Are Zirconia Teeth Aesthetically Pleasing?

    Indeed, zirconia dental implants boast an attractive appearance. Being non-metallic and white, they blend seamlessly with your smile, closely resembling natural teeth. Conversely, titanium lacks this natural aesthetic; its grey color may become visible, especially for individuals with thin or receding gums.

  • Zirconia Implant Pricing

    The cost of zirconia implants varies among dentists due to individual pricing structures. However, zirconia implants tend to be slightly more expensive than titanium implants, primarily due to the higher manufacturing costs of zirconia. The trend today is that more and more patients are wanting Ceramic/Zirconia Implants as more people are becoming very health conscious. The organic food shoppers and holistic minded patients are growing which explains why titanium implant companies are adding ceramic/zirconia implants to their lineup.

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