Dental Implant Materials
Plano, TX
 With dental implants becoming an increasingly popular solution for lost teeth, it is important to understand the kinds of implant options that would be available to you if you have lost or damaged your teeth. Given the effects of tooth loss, it is important to choose the right material when having a dental implant fitted. Implants today are made from a wide range of materials. At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, we are always available to offer you all the information you need about the different types of implants. There are two general types of implant materials: titanium, and zirconia.
Titanium Implants
Titanium implants are metal implants made of titanium. They are marketed as made of strong, biocompatible implant material. They are a very strong implant material, meaning they are able to withstand pressure and are less prone to fracture. Titanium has a very high success rate and has been known to retain its structural compatibility and strength in up to 95% of cases. They typically last up to 20 years before they have to be replaced.
With proper maintenance, titanium implants can last a lifetime. As a metal, titanium has been in use for several years in the medical field. It is famously used in the manufacture of replacement hips and knees. In the history of dental implants, titanium remains the most commonly used. It is favored because of its strong and lightweight nature. It is up to 40% lighter than typical metal weights and is highly resistant to corrosion.
It is however important to note that for patients with certain autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s disease, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis, the release of metal ions from the titanium can result in irritation or local inflammation.
Zirconia Implants
For patients that might be allergic to the metal in titanium implants, zirconia implants come in handy. Like titanium implants, zirconia implants are also made from materials that are biocompatible with human tissue. They are, however, not made from metal, which is one of the strongest marketing characteristics of the implants. They also have a high strength level and are highly resistant to fracturing.
Zirconia implants have low levels of bacterial attraction, which further reduces their chances of failure and complications when used as an implant material. However, unlike titanium, the general success rates of zirconia have been found to be lower. Zirconia also has a relatively high rate of corrosion. The material can easily be colored to match the colors of the natural teeth of the patient, which makes the zirconia implants especially useful when it comes to the replacement of front teeth.
Which One to Choose?
With the right levels of dental care and maintenance, implants, regardless of the material, will last several years. To improve the lifespan of your implants, one should keep a thorough dental hygiene routine, have regular oral exams and avoid foods and habits that might damage the replacement teeth, such as smoking. The choice of the right material to use for your dental implants is an important one. It should ideally be made with the help of a qualified dental professional.
If you are wondering what dental implant material you should choose, contact Dallas Oral Surgery Associates at 972-733-0414 to discuss the options available. |
