Greenville, SC dentists explain the benefits of zirconia dental implants vs titanium implants

The parts of the oral cavity are designed to work together as a unit, forming a beautiful, healthy smile. Losing even a single tooth disrupts the natural balance. Bacteria has new places to accumulate. The adjacent teeth may shift. Bone loss may occur. When tooth loss occurs, zirconia dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and to restore balance to the mouth. Located in Greenville, SC, the team at Palmer Distinctive Dentistry provides dental services including dental implants for guests in Greer, Taylor, Five Forks, and the surrounding areas.

What is a dental implant?

Our teeth have roots and crowns. The root is not visible and sits below the gumline. The crown is the visible part that people often think of when a tooth is lost. A dental implant is a small post that is precisely positioned in place of a missing tooth root. The implant mimics the role of a tooth root. It stimulates regeneration of the bone and keeps it healthy. The bone and soft tissues heal and fuse around the implant to create a stable, long-lasting dental restoration. An abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment connects a crown to the implant to create a natural-looking tooth.

The implant topped with a crown restores the natural balance of the mouth. The restoration looks and functions as a natural tooth. The implant securely replaces the tooth root. It is able to withstand the pressure of biting and chewing. Eating and speaking can return to normal. Aesthetically, your smile is complete again. Dental implants are versatile. They can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, depending on need. By mimicking the tooth root, implants maintain the health of the bone and keep the teeth from shifting.

Zirconia vs titanium implants

Dental implants may be made of zirconia or titanium. Titanium has been used in various medical and dental procedures including hip replacements and dental implants. Titanium is a lightweight, yet strong metal that has been considered the standard for dental implants. However, zirconia implants have become increasingly popular for safety, wellness, and aesthetic reasons. At Palmer Distinctive Dentistry, we use zirconia dental implants from Z-systems.

Implants have a very high success rate, but infection and implant failure can occur. With titanium implants, there are three individual pieces for the root, abutment, and crown. The abutment connects the implant and crown, but it can also be a point of weakness, as it is an extra piece that may create gaps where bacteria can accumulate. Zirconia implants connect directly to the crown without a separate abutment, so there is one less source of infection. Zirconia is easily accepted by the body. It integrates well with the bone and gums, so there is a tight seal around the implant. The chance of infection or implant failure is much lower with zirconia implants.

Zirconia implants are made of a biocompatible ceramic material. They are metal-free and safe for guests. The material is readily accepted by the body and integrates with the bone. It does not cause irritation or adverse reactions. Ceramic implants do not acquire the same amount of dental plaque as metal implants and are easier to keep clean. Zirconia implants are long-lasting and durable.

From an aesthetic standpoint, zirconia implants are white and closely resemble the natural tooth color. For guests who have thin or receding gums, part of the implant may be visible. If it is, it is white and appears to be a natural tooth. Titanium implants are silver or gray so if that implant is visible, it is obviously a restoration and not a natural tooth.

Biocompatible, sturdy ceramic implants

Zirconia implants are the preferred choice to replace missing teeth. Benefits of ceramic implants include:

• Biocompatible – The body easily accepts the implant.
• Sustainable – With fewer weak points, less plaque accumulates on or around the restoration, reducing the risk of infection or failure.
• Aesthetics – Zirconia more closely resembles tooth enamel in color.
• Safe – Ceramic implants are metal-free and cannot conduct electricity. They do not irritate the tissues of the mouth or cause negative side effects.
• Successful – With proper oral care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

If you are missing teeth, contact our Greenville, SC office to schedule your appointment with Dr. Palmer or Dr. Adams. Call .

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