Zirconia Dental Implants
Are Zirconia Dental implants the right option for your mouth? Zirconia is some of the most durable and accessible materials used for Dental implants. They have a ton of benefits in their usage, and a few cons. As technology advances and we gain more options for dental health, it is important to learn about the different materials and how they affect our body’s biochemistry. However, if you are looking for a material that is safe for your body, has immense strength, and is durable enough to last a lifetime–Zirconia may be the best option for you.
What is Zirconia?
Zirconia is a crystalline oxide derived from Zirconium. It contains metal atoms, but is not a metal. It is classified as a ceramic material in Dentistry. It is immensely strong due to its monoclinic crystal structure, and is especially durable when derived from a monolithic piece. Zirconia is a highly common material used in Dental implants, and is naturally occurring in our world.
Why Materials matter in Dentistry
As we develop as a tech-aware society, and the importance of using organic materials grows in our consciousness, we are hyper sensitive to what we are putting in our bodies. The number one concern as people get more and more hardware in their mouth is exposure to harmful chemicals. Dentures require adhesive chemicals, metal implants expose people to leeching substances and allergic reactions. If materials concern you, you may be interested in learning about Holistic Dentistry, which opts to use natural remedies and materials that are non-reactive. Fluoride, which has been used in Dentistry and Toothpastes and Mouthwashes for years and years, has recently been a topic of concern for those chemically aware or sensitive. This is a huge plus for Zirconia implants. Zirconia implants are 100% biocompatible. Nothing contained in a Zirconia implant will react with your body in anyway. Your concerns when you receive one can then be limited to hygiene, infection, and fit. Anytime you can narrow the scope of concerns for your health, it is a good thing.
Benefits of Zirconia Implants
- Biocompatibility- As we discussed, Zirconia is metal-free and naturally occurring. It will not react with your gums or gut, and there are no concerning chemicals or compounds used which could cause allergic reactions or leeching into your bloodstream. If you are the kind of consumer who opts for organic goods, Zirconia aligns with that ideology.
- Strength- Zirconia is immensely strong. It has some of the highest crown fracture strength of any material at 1.5+mm. If Zirconia is handled correctly, and has appropriate thickness, it can last longer than the life-cycle of your mouth.
- Appearance- Zirconia has a semi-translucent look and is a white color like a tooth naturally. It can also be layered with porcelain, if the implant will be one of your front-facing teeth. Zirconia can be colored, easily adjusted, and shaped easily to fit the space of any tooth or teeth you need replaced. Even though porcelain is a relatively fragile material in dentistry, prone to cracks and chips, it can be layered with Zirconia without greatly hindering the strength of the Zirconia.
- Thermal and Electric Conductivity- Zirconia is relatively inert and does not carry a high thermal conductivity. This should limit extreme temperature “shock” for your gums or residual root pain from eating hot or cold foods. No concerns with battery or galvanic effects with Zirconia implants.
- Lower Plaque Accumulation- You must maintain a vigilant hygiene routine with your natural teeth or any dental implant. That being said, studies have suggested that Zirconia has a lower plaque accumulation and is less prone to infections in the implant area.
- Timeline- Zirconia has a malleability that allows it to usually be fitted and bonded in one appointment. This is dependent on each patient. Discuss options with your Dental implant team.
Disadvantages
- Too Strong- Because of the strength of Zirconia, ill-fitted or insecure implant fitting can compromise the chewing force of the jaw, and thus cause jaw pain. You must maintain open communication with your Dentist, Restorative Dentist, Dental Surgeon, and Dental Hygienist regarding the fit of your implant. The sooner you catch any looseness, wobbles, pain, inflammation, or infection in your implant, the likelier it is a quick remedy. Your implant can possibly be removed, refitted, reshaped, and rebonded in one appointment, depending on the severity and your gum and jaw health.
- Lack of Long-term Studies- Because Zirconia is a relatively new material used in the grand scheme of Dentistry, with crown replacements dating back to the Etruscans, there is a limited scope of long-term studies. Zirconia’s life span as an implant is typically 10-20 years, but can feasibly last much longer. We are unaware of what can compromise the material in long term life-cycles. There is some evidence that low-temperature degradation can compromise the strength of the implant long-term. Not enough is known about this.
- Long-term fractures- Some evidence has presented that Zirconia is more brittle than titanium, because it is not a metal, and thus more prone to fractures in the long term. Whereas a fracture of a metal material can be very hazardous to your health, the biocompatibility of Zirconia is more comforting in this regard.
- Small Fractures- Zirconia’s durability is linked to its’ thickness, so using it for small fractures with thin or sharp diameters can lead to hairline fractures along the implant.
Understanding these benefits and contraindications is a good place to start. You gain autonomy in your Dental decisions through open communication with your Dental Implant team. Ask questions, express concerns, and talk through your options during consultations. Reach out to your insurance provider and compare and contrast what options your coverage offers, then decide on appropriate options for your Dental implant. The strength of your dental implant is important, but the success of your implant will fall on your shoulders. Patients who are informed, trust their dental implant team, ask questions, and take control over their dental hygiene plan are the most satisfied with their implant.