Zirconia Non-Metal Dental Implants
Zirconia implants or metal free dental implants represent the new era of modern dental implantology – the “All-Ceramic” dental implant. This major revolution means patients who desire or need a complete metal-free solution can now replace missing or lost teeth without compromise. At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, we understand and appreciate the desire of many of our patients who wish for an organic and metal-free approach to their dentistry. At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, we are Australian leaders in pure, all-ceramic Zirconia, metal-free implants. Dr. Dean Licenblat is highly skilled and knowledgeable in this treatment having undertaken an extensive study on Zirconia implants as part of his Master thesis at Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany. The results of his research are currently being published in internationally recognised dental implant journals.
What are Zirconia Implants?
The material Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2) – or more commonly zirconia – is a naturally occurring, metal-free, highly biocompatible and non-corrosive ceramic. It is completely non-reactive, non-allergenic, and bio-inert, so it does not invite inflammation. Unlike their predecessors, the newer zirconia implants, such as Straumann Pure and Zeramex, are extremely hard and do not fracture easily, adding to the lifespan of your restoration.
From an aesthetic standpoint, our metal-free implants are white and have the natural translucency of natural teeth, so the grey hue that can appear with some titanium implants at the gum line is no longer a concern.
At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, we offer 2 types of metal-free implants; Straumann Pure and Zeramex. Both these implants are 2-piece Zirconium surface implants, however the Straumann Pure contains metal on the inside. Many patients did not want any form of metal in their mouth (even though the metal was inside the implant) and so we sourced Zeramex (used around the world for over a decade) as the best completely metal-free implant solution.
At Sydney Dental Aesthetics and Implants we are always up-to-date with the latest in materials and technology, including the most current scientific research and literature. Zeramex is currently our preferred purely metal-free dental implant system, as it offers a natural and aesthetic approach to implant dentistry. They are particularly ideal for patients whom holistic dentistry is of paramount importance and especially for those who have allergies to metals.
Why use Zeramex?
Zeramex ceramic implants offer you reliability. High biocompatibility and corrosion resistance ensure that the zirconium dioxide ceramic used remains stable over the long term. Furthermore, ceramic implants are not affected by contact with oral bacteria or other dental materials. They also have a lower affinity with plaque, this significantly reduces the risk of inflammation around the implant. The biocompatibility of ceramic allows natural blood flow to the gums around the implant.
The completely metal-free Zeramex ceramic implants are as aesthetically and functionally impressive as artificial tooth roots. Their white colour is visually superior to grey titanium and there is no risk of visible grey edges or the dark core of the implant showing through.
How does Zeramex work?
A dental implant (1) is an artificial tooth root that becomes securely embedded in the surrounding bone. After the time required for healing, the implant is provided with an abutment (2) onto which the actual crown (3) or bridge is placed. Zeramex can be used even when more than one tooth is missing.
This system allows teeth to be restored both functionally and aesthetically which means chewing without worry and a great smile! Ceramic implants offer a stable base for dentures and help prevent bone loss. In addition, the natural white hue of ceramics is an excellent basis for aesthetically pleasing results. This prevents the risk of visible grey metallic edges or a dark implant core that shows through.
Reasons to choose Zirconia Implants
1. Biocompatibility & integration
Zirconia has been classified as a completely biocompatible and bio-inert material which has been proven scientifically to generate a very successful union or osseointegration between the implant and the bone.
2. Allergies & sensitivities
It is now coming to light that there are a large number of people with allergies, sensitivities and other complications including immune system disorders that can be attributed to metal intolerance. This contraindicates the use of metals in any therapies including dental implants for these unfortunate people, meaning many have been previously left with unsatisfactory solutions.
3. Hardness
The long-term success is one of the most important aspects of all ceramic implants. Zirconia implants are designed and manufactured to be lightweight, incredibly strong, resist bending and to withstand chewing forces thus maintain long term strength. Each implant is specifically designed to biomimetically replace a tooth, in particular, recreate, as close as possible, the original biological anatomy, conserving measures in emergence, diameter and height.
4. Corrosion resistance
Zirconia is resistant to chemical corrosion as well as being a thermal and electrical insulator, thus by definition, it is a bio-inert material, meaning it will never trigger chemical reactions, migrate to distant sites or interfere with the health of adjacent tissues. Metal-Free implants will not interfere with the movement of energy through the meridian pathways making them ideal for those who adhere to holistic health principles and biocompatible medicine.
5. Hygiene
The absence of electrical conductivity of the zirconia ceramic makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the implant surface and thus makes maintaining the hygiene of the prosthesis much simpler. This means it is easier to maintain a healthy gum line and decrease inflammation.
6. Aesthetics
A common problem that arises with some titanium implants is an aesthetic one. Many patients have a thin or translucent gum biotype or are prone to gum recession and it is these people who may end up with grey gums or titanium showing around the gum margin. Since Zirconia implants are white in colour, there will be no greying of the gingival tissues or metal showing around the interface of the gum.
To learn more about zirconium dental implants, or to find out if you are a candidate for metal-free implants, please come in for a personal consultation. Scheduling is easy – give us a call or request a consultation online – we look forward to meeting you, and helping you find an individualised, health-orientated comprehensive solution that is right for you.
All-ceramic dental crown on an all-ceramic dental implant… setting the stage for the ultimate in optimal function, superior holistic health and natural biomimetic aesthetics.
Global dental leader, educator and innovator
Meet Dr Dean Licenblat; innovator in metal free implants.
To learn more about Doctor Licenblat’s credentials and experience please see his profile page.
Would you like more information?
If you would like further information regarding dental implants please send us a message and we will provide the information that you need.