When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often considered the gold standard. Capable of restoring teeth in terms of look, feel, and functionality, they have completely changed how dentists approach tooth restoration. In recent years, there have been all kinds of breakthroughs concerning dental implants—such as the emergence of zirconia dental implants. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants made from zirconia and why you shouldn’t hesitate to consider them if you need to restore your smile!
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants refer to small posts that are surgically placed beneath a patient’s gumline, directly into their jawbone, in order to act as an artificial root for a missing tooth. The implant post is made from biocompatible materials, which means that it can fuse with bone and establish a sturdy foundation for the future prosthetic tooth. Dental implants are incredibly unique in the sense that they replace the entire structure of the missing tooth, from the root to the crown – something that traditional tooth replacement options cannot do.
What Are Dental Implants Made Out Of?
If you’ve heard of dental implants, you might assume that they’re all made from titanium – but there are actually numerous different materials used for these posts, with another common choice being zirconia. Zirconia is another biocompatible material that rarely causes allergic reactions or sensitivities, making it just as ideal for dental implants.
What Are the Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants?
In addition to being totally safe and biocompatible, zirconia dental implants offer numerous other benefits such as:
- Exceptional Durability – Zirconia implants are comparable in durability to traditional titanium options, allowing them to easily withstand the daily stresses of biting and chewing.
- Aesthetic Appeal – Zirconia implants boast an impressive aesthetic advantage; their tooth-like translucency and color closely resemble natural teeth.
- Corrosion Resistance – Certain evidence suggests that titanium can corrode in the oral environment, which can then trigger autoimmune responses in metal-sensitive patients. Zirconia is highly resistant to corrosion and does not deteriorate over time.
- Less Plaque Accumulation – Research has also found that zirconia implants have superior soft tissue blood flow and reduce plaque adhesion, which can lessen the risk factors for conditions that cause implant failure like gum disease.
Zirconia dental implants offer a compelling alternative to traditional metal implants, providing patients with a range of benefits as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing there’s no metal in their mouths!
About the Practice
Dr. Michael O’Brien and his talented team have proudly served the dental needs of patients in Tulsa for several years, offering a wide range of services including tooth restoration options like dental implants placed entirely in-house. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up a consultation, please feel free to reach out online or by phone for additional information. Telephone: (918) 477-9000.