A missing tooth or teeth can have a significant impact on a person’s everyday life by affecting speech, eating, and smiling. Dental implants offer a potential solution: they look and act like natural teeth.
Today, titanium and ceramic dental implants are options. Titanium has been used as an implant material for decades, but it may not be suitable for those who are allergic to metals. Ceramic offers a more natural look and can be a good choice for individuals who are allergic to titanium; however, further research is needed on its long-term durability.
Each material offers pros and cons, and if you’re interested in getting dental implants yourself, talk with your dentist. They can make personalized recommendations on materials based on an understanding of your health and preferences.
The Basics of Dental Implants
To understand the pros and cons of various dental implant materials, it can help to first learn about the dental implant process.
A dental implant is an anchor inserted into the jawbone, onto which an artificial tooth is placed. A traditional titanium dental implant procedure can be performed by a dentist, periodontist, or oral surgeon, and typically follows the below process:
- Assessment & planning: X-rays and detailed evaluations confirm whether implants are the right option for you and help your dentist design a personalized treatment plan.
- Implant placement: The implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gums. The area is closed with stitches, and a healing period of several months allows the implant to fuse with the bone.
- Abutment connection: Once healing is complete, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant. In some cases, this can be done during the same appointment as the implant placement.
- Artificial tooth placement: A custom crown is then secured to the abutment, completing the restoration. Multiple visits may be needed to ensure the crown fits comfortably and functions properly.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants look and act much like natural teeth, which means you need to take care of them just like you would your other teeth. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends that older adults brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Remember: if you don’t floss, you miss ⅓ of your teeth’s surface.
You’ll also need regular dental checkups to monitor your implants.
Pros & Cons of Titanium Dental Implants
Titanium dental implants are made of titanium, a metal. This material offers benefits such as:
- Lower cost: Titanium implants typically cost less than ceramic implants.
- A long history of use: Titanium dental implants are common and have been used for over 50 years. Their long history of use suggests confidence in the material.
- High durability and good osseointegration: Many studies observe good durability and osseointegration among titanium implants.
Drawbacks to titanium dental implants include:
- Aesthetic concerns: Some people don’t like the visible look of titanium implants, which can be visible when implanted in more recessed gums.
- Titanium allergies: People may choose ceramic over titanium if they’re allergic to titanium. If you have a history of allergic reactions to metal, you may want to take an allergy test before getting titanium implants.
- Titanium toxicity: This is a rare side effect of titanium implants.
Pros & Cons of Ceramic Dental Implants
Some dental clinics, including ours, offer metal-free dental implants such as those made of zirconia (zirconium oxide). Zirconia offers benefits such as:
- Aesthetics: Zirconia offers a more natural look. It may be an appropriate choice for those who have more recessed gums, which can make the implant more visible and increase the need for a more natural-looking implant.
- Good biocompatibility: This means the material is well-tolerated by the body and has a low likelihood of causing inflammation or other complications. (Note that titanium is considered biocompatible as well.)
- Choice for those with titanium allergies: If you’re allergic to titanium, zirconia offers a viable alternative.
Drawbacks to zirconia include:
- Less durable: Although zirconia is slightly less durable than titanium, a 2023 study found a non-statistically significant difference.
- Higher failure rate: The same study reported a similar survival and success rate as titanium implants after a 12-month follow-up.
However, more research is needed. While zirconia is comparable to titanium in the short term, more long-term studies on the material are needed.
A Holistic Approach to Dental Implants
Medical procedures are often an exercise in weighing pros and cons. Whether titanium or zirconia implants are right for you depends on your personal health profile and preferences. Consult with a dentist to get a professional opinion.
With a focus on holistic health, evidence-based care, and patient education, our team at Health First Dental in Calgary would be happy to discuss your implant options. Our clinic offers metal-free dental implants, and we provide biocompatibility testing for personalized care. Our holistic approach means we don’t just look at your teeth and gums; we also consider your overall health and well-being.To discuss your dental implant needs or to schedule a general exam and cleaning, contact us today to book an appointment.
