Implant Materials – Which is Best for You?

Dental implants have changed dentistry in New Brunswick, Canada, by replacing lost teeth in a way that looks normal and lasts a lifetime. You can see a big difference in your quality of life – with the help of implant dentistry in Dieppe – by fixing the look of your smile and making it easier for you to chew and speak. 

But there are so many implant materials out there that it can be hard to choose. Here is a list of the most popular implant materials to help you and your dentist make an informed choice. 

Titanium is the gold standard

Titanium is the best material for tooth implants. The best thing about it is that it is biocompatible, which means that it works well with bone tissue. This lowers the chance of rejection and increases the chances of a long-lasting implant that works.

Additionally, titanium is very strong and long-lasting, and it can handle normal wear and tear from eating. In addition, it is very light and feels normal in the mouth because it is the same weight as real teeth.

Titanium does have some limits, though. Some people who are allergic to or sensitive to metals, especially nickel, which can be found in some titanium alloys, may need to use different materials. Also, the shiny color of titanium implants may show through thin gum tissue, which could be unattractive in some cases.

Zirconia is good for aesthetics

Zirconia implants are a great choice for people who want an option that looks more natural. Because this plastic material is so close to the color of real teeth, it is often used for implants in the front of the mouth, where looks are very important.

One more benefit of zirconia implants is that they are bioinert. Zirconia does not help bones grow as titanium does, but it is very resistant to rust, and the body usually does not have a problem with it. This makes it a good choice for people who are allergic to metals or who are worried about how harmful metals might be.

On the other hand, zirconia is not as strong as titanium. It is still strong enough for most uses, but it might not be the best choice for implants that get hit hard when you chew, especially in the back of the mouth. Zirconia implants may also be more expensive than titanium implants because the process of making them can be more complicated.

Other factors to consider

Picking the right material is very important, but the best implant option for each patient also relies on many other factors. Here are some important things to talk about with your dentist:

Bone quality and quantity

The type of implant that will work for you is based on how healthy and dense your jawline is. Titanium is often a good choice for different bone conditions because it is strong, while zirconia might work better in places where the bone is thicker.

Location of the implant

As was already pointed out, zirconium might be a better choice for implants put in the front of the mouth because they look better.

Overall health

If you have a health problem or an allergy, especially to nickel, which is found in some titanium alloys, this could affect the material you choose.

Cost

Both titanium and zirconia are good materials, but because of how they are made, zirconia implants tend to be a little more expensive.

In the end, you and your doctor will decide together on the “best” implant material for you by taking into account your specific needs, health, and desired physical result.

When you are missing teeth, dental implants can change your life for the better. Knowing the pros and cons of titanium and zirconia materials lets you have a more informed conversation with your dentist. The skill and knowledge of your dentist are very important for the long-term success of your implants.