Non-metal zirconium dental implants
The majority of dental implants are made from titanium but there is a smaller range, which are produced from zirconium. These are ideally suited to patients with an allergy to titanium or dislike the thought of a metal implement in their mouth.
What are zirconium implants?
Zirconium dental implants look and behave in the same way as a titanium implant. An implant consists of a metal rod and abutment (connection element) plus crown, which is an artificial replacement for a missing tooth.
The zirconium implant is flexible and strong which means that it is less likely to break. It is compatible with the body and suitable for osseointegration. Osseointegration is the process in which the dental implant fuses with the jawbone.
Aesthetic appeal
These implants are also preferred for their aesthetic qualities. They are white in colour which means that they blend in well with the rest of your natural teeth and gums. One can argue that the implant is hidden inside the gum so the colour is irrelevant but some patients dislike the idea of having a dark coloured implant. They prefer a pristine white implant instead.
Advantages of zirconium implants
Their pure white appearance is an obvious advantage, which is preferred instead of the metallic titanium implant. Other advantages include:
- Non-allergic
- Corrosion-resistant
- Highly resistant
- Highly durable
This type of implant has a high level of tensile strength, which ensures it against the risk of fracture and failure. The reason for that is zirconium is more elastic than other materials, which reduce the risk of breakage. And it is able to withstand extreme changes in temperature.
