Titanium vs Ceramic Dental Implant
Types of Dental Implants
When you have determined that a dental implant is the best way to address your missing teeth, the dentist has different types of implants to choose from based on which material is best for you. Traditionally used materials like titanium may not be an option for you due to allergies. Additionally, you will want to talk about the pricing, safety, and lifespan of the different options.
Ceramic vs. Titanium Dental Implants
Be sure to talk to the dentist about the two types of implants: ceramic and titanium.
Titanium Implants
The traditional material used for dental implants is titanium and it was initially first used starting in 1960s. Titanium implants are two pieces, with one placed below the gums into the jaw bone. This material is proven to be strong and unlikely to fracture or crack. With the titanium rod secured in place, then the dentist can add the prosthetic tooth to the top of the implant allowing for a very natural look.
Ceramic or Zirconia Implants
Ceramic implants have been used in the United States since 2009 so it is a newer material and form of implant. With ceramic implants being in use in European countries even longer, they have proven to be long lasting like their titanium counterparts. Ceramic implants are designed like a natural tooth with just one solid piece forming the implant and the tooth. The material is more likely to experience small fractures or cracks but the dentist can repair the implant easily. Without any grayish metal below the gums, many believe the ceramic implant to look more natural.
Pricing
Ceramic implants are more expensive than titanium implants for two reasons. First, ceramic implants are more expensive to manufacture as they are one solid piece. Second, ceramic implants require more time to place in your mouth than titanium implants. Depending on how high of a priority it is for you to have the most natural looking implant, ceramic may be the best choice because you avoid the dark metal below the gumline.
Which type of implant is safer?
Both. Ceramic and titanium implants are FDA approved after thorough testing. For people with metal sensitivities or allergies, ceramic eliminates any potential side effects. To date, there have been no documented allergic reactions to the ceramic implants.
Which type of implant lasts longer?
Both types of implant materials offer long term results and can be repaired in the case of fracture or cracking. Titanium implants typically last 20 years and can stay in place if the prosthetic tooth needs to be replaced. Ceramic implants are also long lasting but there is not enough data to specify the average number of years.
Which type of implant will heal more quickly?
Because both materials require surgical placement below the gum line, they both will require time for your gum tissue and jaw bone to heal. Neither one is shown to heal faster than the other with the acute effects from the surgery lasting about a week and the overall healing lasting three to six months.
Which type of dental implant is right for me?
Only you and the dentist can review the pros and cons of each material to determine which is the best solution for your tooth replacement.