Zirconium dental implants are one of the newest alternative traditional implants. They offer a modern and metal-free way to have your missing teeth replaced. Zirconium implants are made of a strong ceramic material which is called zirconia or zirconium dioxide.
What Are Zirconium Dental Implants?
Zirconium dental implants are tooth-roots-like structure which are surgically placed into the jawbone. The purpose of having these שתלים is to provide a stable foundation for prosthetic teeth. They are perfect alternatives for patients who are allergic to titanium or do not want a metal solution.
To learn more about this kind of dental implant, please see the chart below.
| Characteristics of Zirconium Dental Implants | Details |
| Material | Zirconium is a high performance ceramic. It is very strong, durable and resistant to corrosion. |
| Aesthetic Advantage | Zirconium is easy to blend with the teeth and gums, which makes it perfect for front teeth. |
| Biocompatibility | Zirconium is an anti-allergic material. |
| Monolithic Structure | Zirconium implants are designed to be a single-piece. That is how dental experts can combine the implant and abutment, and the procedure becomes much simpler. |
What Are The Advantages of Zirconium Dental Implants
There are many advantages of having zirconium dental implants rather than traditional implants. Some of them are listed below. Zirconium dental implants
- are metal-free. They are perfect for patients who are looking for a metal-free option or those with metal allergies.
- have a high aesthetic appeal. Zirconia is naturally white. So, it does not create a grayish tint beneath the gums as titanium does.
- are resistant to plaque buildup, thanks to which you can have a better gum health.
- do not cause corrosion, so the שתלים can be used for a long time.
- are suitable for patients who suffer from autoimmune diseases. They are also recommended to the patients who have concerns about potential metal sensitivities.
How to Perform Zirconium Dental Implants?
While placing zirconium dental implants, dental experts follow a detailed process for 100% success and long-term stability.
The procedure can be summarized in the chart below.
| Process of Placing Zirconium Dental Implants | Details | |
| Initial Consultation and Planning | Examination | Evaluating dental health, gum condition, and jawbone density. |
| Imaging | Having X-rays and 3D scans. | |
| Planning the Treatment | Developing a personalized plan according to the patient’s preferences, dental health, and aesthetic goals. | |
| Preparatory Procedures | Bone Grafting | In case of insufficient jawbone to support the implant, it is required to augment the bone volume. |
| Gum Health | Treating any existing gum diseases or infections. | |
| Implant Placement Surgery | Anesthesia | Administering local anesthesia or sedation to ensure the patient’s comfort. |
| Incision | Making a small incision in the hum to expose the jawbone. | |
| Pilot Hole Drilling | Drilling a pilot hole in the jawbone by following precise depth and angle guidelines. | |
| Implant Insertion | Placing the dental implant gently into the prepared hole. | |
| Suturing | Suturing the gums around the implant to facilitate healing. | |
| Healing Period | Time | It takes 3 – 6 months for the tooth to recover. |
| Precaution | Having a temporary crown during this period to maintain aesthetics and function.
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| Prosthetic Placement | Impressions | Taking impressions of the month to create a custom crown after the completion of osseointegration. |
| Attachment | Placing the prosthetic tooth directly on the integrated abutment. | |
| Adjustments | Adjusting the prostetic dental implant tooth to ensure a perfect fit and comfortable bite. | |
What to Consider for Zirconium Implants?
To sum up, the patient who are searching zirconium dental implants should consider the aspects which are listed below.
- Zirconium dental implants require accurate placement due to their rigid structure.
- There are two types of designs of these שתלים: single-piece and two-piece. Single-piece implants limit flexibility in angulation, while two-piece designs offer greater versatility but are less common.
- Zirconium dental implants are especially effective for highly visible areas due to their natural appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions on Zirconium Dental Implants
It is normal for patients to have questions on zirconium dental implants. The most commonly asked ones are listed below with their answers.
Is Zirconium Good For Dental Implants?
Yes, because zirconium is known for its good flexural strength, durability and resistance. Other advantages are:
- its white color
- low modules elasticity
- low thermal conductivity
How Long Do Zirconium Implants Last?
Zirconium dental implants have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, the same as titanium dental implants.
Is Zirconia Implant Better Than Titanium?
If you are sensitive to metal or even allergic, zirconium dental implants are perfect for you. They offer significant strength without the gum irritation often associated with titanium implants.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Zirconia In Dentistry?
There are minimal disadvantages of zirconium crowns. They are made of a material which is tough. This fact raised some concerns about the friction against the tooth root and the opposing teeth.