Zirconia Dental Implants
A dental implant is a surgically placed dental restoration that can be used to replace one tooth or multiple teeth, even one or both arches. The most commonly used material for dental implants has always been titanium, which has been used since the 1960s, but zirconia has made its way into the market, having received FDA approval in 2011 and haven't been used by European dentists for decades. Zirconia implants have biocompatibility comparable to that of titanium and is just as stable and secure as titanium. Zirconia is an excellent option for patients suffering from mental allergies that cannot withstand a titanium implant.
What is a zirconia implant?
Zirconia implants have grown in popularity since their approval by the FDA and are often used in holistic dentistry but their long-term success rate has not been adequately studied since they are so new to the scene. Titanium implants have a proven success rate between 94%-97%.
Zirconia is a white, ceramic material that can be tinted to match the patient's natural tooth color. Zirconia implants are used as a metal-free alternative to titanium implants. A ceramic restoration is a solid material made from an inorganic compound of metal and non-metal with ionic or covalent bonds.
Pros and Cons of Zirconia Dental Implants
One of the biggest benefits of zirconia implants is that they are more aesthetically pleasing for a longer time since they eliminate the possibility of metal showing through the gum line as you age. Zirconia implants were initially fabricated as one piece, the implant, abutment, and crown all in one. As technology has advanced and zirconia implants have become more frequently used, zirconia implants now come in two pieces which allows for a customized implant abutment and more individualized result.
Zirconia implants have also displayed osseointegration properties comparable to that of titanium. This simply means that zirconia implants integrate with bone structure as well as, if not better than, titanium. For patients who prefer metal-free dentistry, zirconia is the only option but may also be the healthier option! Zirconia retains less plaque and calculus buildup than titanium so is much better for the health of the gum tissue.
Low-temperature degradation is a downfall of zirconia implants which could result in the mechanical properties of the implant degrading and reducing the strength, durability, and density of the material. Unfortunately, there are not many clinical studies available for the long-term success of zirconia because it is still so new.
Which is better, Zirconia or Titanium?
Titanium has been around for decades so there are more studies available to support its biocompatibility and success, therefore, most patients feel more comfortable with it. Since zirconia implants have emerged, they have proven to be a promising alternative to titanium implants for patients who prefer non-metal dentistry. Zirconia has a comparable biocompatibility and osseointegration ability to titanium and may be the better ideal for some patients.
Zirconia vs Titanium: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
Metal Allergies: Patients with metal allergies can have a hard time with dental restorations that contain metal properties. Patients often choose metal-free implants in order to restore their teeth without the risk of failure. It is rare for a person to be allergic to titanium but a zirconia implant is not pure titanium, which is where allergies can become problematic in titanium implants.
Corrosion and Plaque Buildup: Zirconia is proven to be excellent at resisting corrosion and the surface of the implant resists plaque accumulation which helps prevent peri-implantitis and periodontal disease which can ultimately lead to implant failure.
Aesthetics: Zirconia implants are completely tooth colored so there is no risk of metal showing at the gum line. Titanium can have a risk of tissue discoloration or a gray appearance at the implant site as the patient ages.
Disadvantages
Long term success: Zirconia implants do not have the studies that titanium implants have to show long-term success because they have only been on the market for about 10 years. Titanium implants have a proven success rate between 94% and 97% since they have been around for decades and have the studies to back it.
Strength and durability: Zirconia is more brittle than titanium which causes it to have a lower fracture strength and a lower flexural strength. This means that zirconia is more likely to fracture under forces that cause the implant to bend or flex. Zirconia is also more prone to fracture because they have a smaller diameter than titanium implants.
Limited Design: Patients that require intensive dental restorative treatment may not have the advantage of zirconia as an option. Because zirconia implants are still new, design improvements have only been made in the past couple of years. The limitations on design availability and the availability of different zirconia parts can make it impossible for your dentist to provide you with the best possible results.
Are zirconia dental implants safe?
Zirconia implants are a safe and healthy option available to patients who do not want or cannot have a metal implant. Your dentist will discuss the pros and cons of zirconia implants to help you determine what type of implant will best suit your individual needs and fit your lifestyle. If you need a dental implant, discuss your options with your dentist so that you can make an informed decision!