Dental implants are an incredible solution for replacing missing and damaged teeth. They work just like natural teeth, restoring your ability to eat, speak and smile confidently. However, have you ever wondered, ‘What are dental implants made of?’ In this blog, we will explore the materials used to craft tooth implants, which make the foundation for holding artificial teeth in place along with some tips for selecting the best material.
What Are Teeth Implants Made Of
The two common materials used for dental implants are:
- Titanium
- Zirconia
Titanium is regarded as the highest-quality material for dental implants due to its excellent qualities:
- Biocompatibility: Titanium is known for its compatibility with the human body, as it does not cause rejection or react negatively during and after dental implant surgery.
- Durability: Thanks to its strength and durability, titanium is a tough metal that provides excellent support to replacement teeth and effectively handles the force of chewing and biting.
- Osseointegration: Titanium is a strong and lightweight metal that is friendly to your body. It fuses well with your jawbone and that is crucial for a successful dental implant surgery. Because of this special quality, dentists prefer titanium over other materials. Titanium has a long history of reliability and high success rates in dental implant procedures.
Zirconia stands as the second most commonly used material for dental implants, categorised as a type of ceramic material.
- Tough: Zirconia is known for its tough and impressive strength, effortlessly handling the pressures of chewing and biting, similar to natural teeth.
- Natural Look: One of the prominent features of zirconia is its tooth-coloured appearance. It seamlessly blends with your teeth for a natural and more real appearance.
- Biocompatibility: Thanks to its biocompatibility, it’s also friendly to the human body and doesn’t cause any reactions during the surgery.
Titanium Vs. Zirconia — What To Choose
Both titanium and zirconia come with their advantages. Titanium is well-known for its high success rate and is a proven reliability for long-term dental implant success. On the other hand, zirconia, despite being a ceramic material, boasts incredible strength and offers a more natural appearance, which is especially beneficial for patients concerned about the look of artificial teeth.
A Dentists Approach:
Ultimately, the final decision between Titanium or zirconia depends on your dentist. After assessing your oral health and considering factors like the implant‘s location, your dentist will determine which material might be better suited for your case.
Tips To Choose The Best Material
Deciding upon the right material for dental implants involves various considerations, with your dentist’s advice being the most crucial factor. Here are some tips to guide you in making the best decision:
Consider Implant Location:
The location of your implant plays a key role in choosing between titanium or zirconia. For example, if the implant is for your front teeth, prioritising aesthetics for a natural appearance might make zirconia a suitable choice.
Whereas, in areas needing strength and durability, such as molars for chewing, titanium emerges as a strong and reliable option.
Body Friendly
Individual reactions to these materials vary! Titanium is generally compatible with the human body and boasts a well-known success rate due to its biocompatibility. However, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to titanium. In such cases, zirconia tends to be a better alternative, with a lower risk of adverse reactions.
Aesthetic
If aesthetics matter more to you, especially if you’re getting front tooth dental implants, zirconia is preferable due to its tooth-coloured appearance.
Longevity
Overall, the aim is to choose a material that ensures the long-term success of dental implants. Your dentist’s guidance goes a long way in making this decision. They evaluate all aspects related to your specific case and condition before recommending the most suitable material.
A Dentist Recommendation
A dentist’s expertise comes in handy as a decisive factor in choosing the best material. They assess your oral health, consider your personal preferences, and take into account various factors specific to your situation. Ultimately, they reach a decision that not only meets the needs of their patients but also promises long-lasting implant success.
Conclusion
Now you know what dental implants are made of? The two main common materials are Titanium and zirconia. Each has its strengths, but the best choice settles down on what you need and prefer. Talk to your dentist to get the right recommendation for the most natural and successful tooth replacement with dental implants!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are dental implant crowns made of?
A dental implant crown is an artificial tooth. It is commonly made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys like gold, or zirconia. Each of these materials has its perks, but seeking guidance from a dentist helps in determining the most suitable one.
2. Are dental implants painful?
The experience of pain varies from person to person. However, dental implant surgery is typically not painful because it is performed under the use of local anaesthesia or sedation. You might experience some discomfort or swelling afterwards, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
3. What is the best material for dental implants?
The best material is determined by considering various factors, such as individual needs, implant location, oral health, and aesthetic preferences. A dentist or oral surgeon can guide you on the best material for dental implants.
4. What is the cost difference between titanium and zirconia?
Typically, zirconia tends to be more expensive than titanium due to its higher manufacturing cost and complex production process. However, the exact cost can vary due to several factors, including material expenses, manufacturing intricacies, additional procedures like bone grafting, individual provider pricing, and geographic location expenses. For accurate pricing information, it’s advisable to discuss this with your dentist or oral surgeon.
