What are zirconia implants?

Zirconia implants refer to a type of dental implant crafted from zirconia, a non-metallic ceramic material renowned for its biocompatibility and aesthetic appeal. Following the surgical implantation of the zirconia implant into the jawbone, it is typically crowned with a ceramic restoration, ensuring a harmonious blend with the natural teeth and offering patients a durable, metal-free solution for tooth replacement.

It's most common to choose an oral surgeon or maxillofacial surgeon for a dental implant. 

What are the pros and cons of zirconia implants?

There are both pros and cons of zirconia dental implants. Here are the pros:  

• They are allergy-free, so they can be a good option for people with metal allergies or sensitivities;
• They integrate better, allowing the bone to fuse firmly with the implant. Studies have shown zirconia implants are as good or even better than titanium implants; 
• They can be fully customised to fit individual patient needs;
• Zirconia retains less plaque and calculus than titanium so could be healthier for the soft gum tissue;
• It is a strong material and is known to be resistant to fracture;
• The risk of dark lines where the tooth meets the gum (gingival margin) is eliminated. 

The cons of zirconia implants include:

• The material's strength and density could degrade as it ages;
• Two-piece dental implants can result in aseptic loosening, and there is lack of research into this;
• A zirconia implant that isn't placed in an ideal location could cause issues with the condition of the material;
• Specific clinical situations may not allow for a healing period, which is required for zirconia dental implants;
• Studies of zirconia dental implants have only assessed two or three-year survival rates up until this point in time, while titanium dental implants have been extensively studied for decades. 

What are the complications of zirconia implants?

It's been found that complications of zirconia dental implants include:

• Gum irritation;
• Teeth sensitivity;
• Chipping of the veneering porcelain;
• Becoming loose;
• Fractures. 

However, the results are a small percentage of a test group used for this study, and the benefits can outweigh possible cons. 

Are zirconia implants expensive?

Zirconia dental implants cost more money than titanium implants. This is due to various reasons, which includes the manufacturing process in comparison to titanium, the specialist training required for ceramic implant surgery. The crown costs an additional fee.

How long do zirconia implants last?

Zirconia implants typically last around 15 to 20 years, similar to titanium implants. However, since zirconia is relatively new in dental implants, long-term data is still limited. Further research is needed to confirm their extended durability and performance.