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By Anna Hill
Known for their attractive and natural look, zirconia dental implants are a great option for those with metal allergies or sensitivities.
Losing teeth is a common dental problem – especially as people age. However, people can also lose teeth due to things like trauma or periodontal disease that’s left untreated. Once a tooth has been lost, the surrounding gums and jawbone begin to recede and weaken, which can cause trouble with eating, speaking, and overall oral health. Thankfully, there are many options for replacing teeth, and dental implants are one of the most permanent solutions when it comes to restoring your smile and periodontal health. For patients who have concerns about metal sensitivities, zirconia implants are an excellent option.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that creates a permanent base for a replacement tooth. Over time, the implanted fixture fuses with the existing bone in your jaw, creating a sturdy, permanent support for your new tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or more than one, depending on the patient’s needs and wants.
As dental implants fuse with your existing bone over time, they provide the greatest amount of stability, in comparison with other tooth replacement options. They not only preserve bone, but can also stimulate its growth as the bone cells work to fuse with the implant. This can halt further jawbone deterioration in its tracks, providing you with a restored smile and a healthier mouth and jaw.
The Benefits of Zirconia
Dental implants are commonly made of titanium; however, this may not be a good option for someone who needs metal-free implants due to an allergy or sensitivity. Zirconia implants are made of ceramic and, due to their composition, are not considered a metal, thus bypassing any issues that someone might have with the more-traditional titanium implants. Zirconia has also been proven to integrate seamlessly with existing tissue and bone.
Aesthetically, zirconia implants can be a wonderful option for patients in search of the most natural look possible. Their natural tooth-like color is a plus, as this color extends into the base and eliminates the possibility of discoloration or a darker color showing through the gums that sometimes results from titanium implants. Some studies even indicate that zirconia reduces the likelihood of plaque build-up around the implants.
For those looking for a safe, natural, metal-free option for permanent tooth replacement, zirconia is a great one to consider. HS
