Many dental care procedures require big decisions and getting dental implant restorations is no different. Researching your dental implant options usually leads to two main results, titanium and zirconia implants. Titanium may be the most common option, but zirconia implants are quickly gaining ground among tooth loss patients with metal sensitivities. Both are excellent tooth replacement solutions, but each option has its own pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll break down the features of each so you can make an informed decision when getting dental implants in Milledgeville, GA.
What Are Titanium Implants?
Titanium implants are considered to be the gold standard for dental implants. These implants consist of a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to act as a tooth root. Over time, the implant bonds with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for the final crown.
Titanium implant benefits
Titanium implants offer many benefits worth considering:
- Durability: Titanium implants are known for their strength and can last a lifetime with proper care.
- High biocompatibility: Biocompatibility refers to how well a material is accepted by the body. Titanium reactions and sensitivities are rare, so it’s considered a highly biocompatible material.
- Proven track record: Many implant specialists trust titanium implants because they have a proven history and are well-researched by experts.
- Cost: Titanium is the more economical material for implants. But bear in mind that the cost of a molar implant may be much lower than the cost of getting full-arch dental implants.
What Are Titanium Implants?
Zirconia implants are relatively newer, metal-free alternatives to titanium. Made from high-quality ceramic, these implants provide a more natural look and tend to be popular among patients with metal sensitivities or specific aesthetic concerns.
Zirconia implant benefits
Wondering what the benefits of zirconia are? Here are a few key advantages:
- Metal-free option: Zirconia implants are perfect for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
- Natural tooth-like color: Unlike titanium, zirconia is naturally white, reducing the risk of a grayish tint showing through the gums.
- Strong and biocompatible: Zirconia is highly biocompatible and integrates well with the jawbone.
Titanium vs. Zirconia Implants
Titanium and zirconia dental implants are both long lasting, and resistant to chipping and cracks. But they have some differences worth noting.
- Material: Titanium is a strong, durable metal, but zirconia is a ceramic material that typically won’t trigger allergies.
- Aesthetics: If a titanium implant recipient experiences thinning gums, a slight metallic tint may be visible through their gums. Zirconia has a natural, tooth-like color that’s not as noticeable.
- Cost: Titanium implants are usually less costly and more easily available compared to zirconia implants.
Which One Is Right for You?
It’s not always easy to choose between two high-quality materials. Always keep your specific needs, budget, and health concerns top-of-mind.
- For patients seeking a trusted and durable implant with a high success rate, titanium is the top choice.
- If you have metal allergies and prefer a metal-free option, zirconia may be the better fit.
Both options offer excellent strength and biocompatibility with long-lasting results and a low risk of tooth implant failure. If you’re unsure which treatment material is best for you, talk to your prosthodontist. They’ll help you determine the right choice for your smile.
