What are dental implants made of? | Sani Dental Group

Dental implants are still growing as a reliable tooth replacement method helping many patients regain their smiles and their quality of life.

As with any other important dental procedure, understanding what it involves is crucial before undergoing any surgery. From the process to what materials can be used to help you smile again.

Here we’ll delve into the most popular material for dental implants, so if you were already wondering What are dental implants made of? Keep reading!

The Evolution of Dental Implant Materials

In the long journey that is the history of dental implants a lot of advancements have been achieved, not only in their functionality but also in the materials used to fabricate them.

According to the 2022 article “Dental Implants: A review of types, design analysis, materials, additive manufacturing methods, and future scope”, dental implants have to meet certain characteristics to be used:

• Functionality: Implants must chew food effectively, mimicking natural teeth.

• Resistance: Implants require strength to endure biting forces and oral fluids.

• Safety: Implant materials must be biocompatible, ensuring oral health is not compromised.

• Aesthetics: Implants should blend seamlessly with natural teeth, preserving the patient's appearance.

With these characteristics taken into consideration, a lot of innovation and research has taken place in the field of these important dental prosthetics. The evolution of the material used in implants started with metals and gradually advanced to ceramics and other heterogeneous materials.

Titanium: The Gold Standard

Titanium has earned its reputation as the gold standard in dental implant construction due to its remarkable properties and proven track record of success. This material can be one of the most cost-effective ones, making it an attractive option.

One of the key reasons a titanium tooth implant is a reliable choice, is the exceptional biocompatibility of this material. When titanium implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, they are able to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. This unique ability allows the implant to become firmly anchored in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth.

Additionally, titanium also offers impressive strength and durability. As mentioned before, dental implants must resist the forces of chewing and biting, as well as the corrosive effects of saliva and other oral fluids. 

Titanium’s high strength and corrosion resistance make it an ideal material for withstanding these challenges, ensuring the long-term stability and functionality of the implant.

This material has rightfully earned its position in dental implant construction due to its exceptional biocompatibility, strength, durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal.

This material continues to be the material of choice for dental implant procedures worldwide.

Zirconia Implants: A Modern Alternative

Zirconia has emerged as a modern alternative to traditional titanium screw in dental implants, offering unique advantages and appealing to patients seeking metal-free restorative options.

One of the primary reasons for the growing popularity of zirconia implants is their aesthetic appeal. Zirconia is a white, ceramic-like material that closely resembles natural teeth in color, making it an excellent choice for patients concerned about the cosmetic aspect of their dental restorations.

Unlike titanium, which may show through the gums in some cases, zirconia implants blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, providing a more natural-like smile.

In addition to their aesthetic benefits, zirconium implants are also highly biocompatible, meaning they are well-tolerated by the body and less likely to trigger adverse reactions or allergies. This makes zirconia implants a suitable option for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies who may not be candidates for titanium implants.

They are also resistant to corrosion and plaque accumulation, which can contribute to long-term implant success and oral health.

Zirconia implants represent a modern alternative that combines aesthetic appeal, biocompatibility, and durability, making them a promising option for patients looking for natural-looking and long-lasting dental restorations.

Which is the Best Option?

In the debate of zirconium vs titanium, there is no correct answer. Each material offers unique characteristics and benefits that can provide an effective solution to patients dealing with tooth loss.

In the end, it comes to the specific situation of each patient. To choose the best option for you it is crucial to receive assistance from qualified dentists.

If you are ready to begin your dental implant journey do not hesitate to give us a call at (928) 257-1307, our patient coordinators are ready to assist you!