Zirconia Dental Implant Cost

Zirconia Dental Implants vs Titanium Implants

For years, the material of choice for dental implants has been titanium. A very biocompatible metal, it is strong and has a long track record of successful use.

There are some concerns, however, over the use of titanium. First, there seem to be a few people who have sensitive reactions to this metal. These people are looking for a “metal-free” alternative. And second, since titanium is opaque and metallic gray, there can be aesthetic concerns.

Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia dental implants are a type of tooth replacement option made of zirconia oxide, a biocompatible material used in other medical applications. Unlike traditional titanium implants, zirconia implants are a newer technology that offers a metal-free alternative for patients with allergies or sensitivities to metals.

One of the primary benefits of zirconia dental implants is that they offer a natural white color that can better blend in with a patient’s natural teeth. They are also less prone to corrosion or damage over time, making them a durable and long-lasting option. Additionally, because they do not conduct heat or cold like metal implants, they can offer a more comfortable experience for patients who may have sensitivity to temperature changes.

There are, however, some potential drawbacks to consider with zirconia dental implants. They are not as well-studied as traditional titanium implants, and there may be less long-term data on their efficacy and safety. Additionally, they can be more expensive than traditional implants, which may be a factor for some patients.

Ultimately, whether zirconia dental implants are the best option for a particular patient will depend on various factors, including the patient’s individual dental needs, preferences, and budget. Patients need to consult a qualified dental professional to determine the best course of treatment for their specific situation.

Advantages of Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia (zirconium dioxide) is a ceramic used increasingly in dental applications as a restorative material. Some periodontists have used it extensively for dental crowns since its FDA approval. It has been used for several years in medicine and orthopedic surgery for joint replacement. Z-Systems, a Swiss company, has been a leader in ceramic implant systems. Their Z-Look3 and Z-Look3 EVO systems have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 2007. This is the ceramic implant system that Dr. Chal uses. The FDA approval assures the patient that these fixtures are manufactured to the highest technical standards for maximum safety and longevity.

Zirconia dental implants offer several advantages over traditional titanium implants, including:

• Biocompatibility: Zirconia is a biocompatible material, meaning that it is non-toxic and non-allergenic and is less likely to cause an inflammatory response or rejection by the body.
• Aesthetics: Zirconia is a tooth-colored material that blends in with natural teeth, making it a more aesthetically pleasing option, especially for patients with thin or receding gums.
• Durability: Zirconia is known for its strength and durability and is less likely to chip, fracture, or wear down over time.
• Corrosion-resistant: Unlike metal implants, zirconia implants are corrosion-resistant, which means they do not rust or degrade over time.
• Less Thermal Conductivity: Zirconia has a lower thermal conductivity than metal, which means it doesn’t conduct hot or cold temperatures from the mouth.
• Greater Precision: Because they are milled from a solid block of material, zirconia implants are more precise in their fit and design, making them an excellent option for patients who need a custom-fit implant.

Disadvantages of Zirconia Dental Implants

Zirconia implants may be more expensive than traditional titanium implants and require a higher level of expertise from the dentist or oral surgeon. Additionally, the placement of zirconia implants may require a more extended healing period, as they require a more gentle touch during surgery to avoid fracturing.

While using ceramic for dental implants may be appealing, there needs to be considerable judgment. Titanium has a long track record of success and would be the choice for almost all cases. Additionally, the zirconia fixtures are all one-piece, so they are straight. In many implant situations, the angle of the tooth’s visible part needs to be different from the angle of the root form, so a straight fixture would not be appropriate.

While zirconia dental implants offer several advantages over traditional titanium implants, they also have some disadvantages. These include:

• Cost: Zirconia implants are typically more expensive than titanium implants.
• Limited research: Zirconia implants are a newer technology, and there is not as much long-term research available to support their effectiveness.
• Fractures: While zirconia implants are highly durable, they may sometimes be prone to fracturing.
• Placement difficulty: Zirconia implants are harder and more brittle than titanium, making them more challenging to place in some cases.
• Limited options: Zirconia implants come in fewer shapes and sizes than titanium implants, which may limit their use in certain situations.

It’s important to discuss the pros and cons of zirconia implants with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine if they are the right choice for your situation.

Zirconia Dental Implants Cost

Zirconia fixtures are more expensive because this a relatively new technology, and their use require more specialized equipment and techniques compared to the traditional titanium techniques that have been approved and used over the past twenty years.

If you are interested in an alternative to traditional titanium metal implants, your periodontist will be happy to evaluate your case and give you a thorough, informed opinion on how they would work for you, with a complete discussion of the pros and cons as they apply to your situation.

How long do zirconia dental implants last?

Zirconia dental implants are relatively new compared to titanium implants, so there is limited long-term data available on their lifespan. However, studies suggest that zirconia implants have a success rate similar to titanium implants, with a survival rate of 93% to 97% after five years.

One study published in the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Implants found that zirconia implants had a survival rate of 93.3% after five years, comparable to titanium implants. Another study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that zirconia implants had a survival rate of 97.2% after five years, with no fractures or chipping reported.

While more research is needed to determine the long-term durability of zirconia implants, current studies suggest that they can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.