Back when dental implants were first invented, they had two distinct parts; the bit that gets screwed into the bone (the fixture) and then the bit where a tooth is attached (the abutment). Both these parts were made from titanium, but more recently, the abutments can be made from high strength ceramic. Technology has further progressed and now the entire implant can be ceramic or, to be more specific, zirconia.
This all-ceramic zirconia implant represents a new era of modern dentistry. Zirconium 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 exhibit much inflammation. Zirconia implants are extremely hard and significantly more aesthetic than their predecessors.
Teeth can now be replaced without bringing metal into the procedure. At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, we understand the desire of the many people who want an organic and metal free approach to their dentistry. Dr Dean Licenblat is one of only a few select surgeons who can offer this metal-free, all-ceramic solution in Australia and in fact across the Asia-Pacific region.
Reasons for choosing zirconia implants
Integration
Zirconia is biocompatible and bio-inert, which means it is far less likely be rejected by the body than titanium. This is extremely important when it comes to any kind of implant. A recent microscopic study performed at the University of Minnesota demonstrated that zirconia implants osseointegrated into the bone without any signs of inflammation or foreign body rejection.
Allergies
After metal implants became possible, around 4% of people discovered they were allergic to titanium. Now it seems that allergies, sensitivities and other complications including immune system disorders can be attributed to metal intolerance. This problem doesn’t exist with zirconia implants.
Strength
One of the most important aspects of dental implants is the long-term success rate. Zirconia implants are designed and manufactured to be lightweight, incredibly strong, resist bending and to withstand chewing, thus maintaining their long term strength.
More hygienic than traditional implants
The zirconia implant surface topography makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the implant surface, and thus harder to colonise.
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.
They look better
Titanium implants sometimes result in aesthetic issues. This is especially true for patients who experience gum recession or those who have thin gums. When titanium implants are put into place, the gums can appear grey. Zirconia is white and not a metal, so it has a more natural look.
Why call SDAI for zirconia implants?
At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, Straumann Pure is our preferred metal-free dental implant system, as it offers a natural and aesthetic approach to implant dentistry and has the most scientific research behind it. They are particularly ideal for patients whom holistic dentistry is of paramount importance and especially for those who have allergies to metals.
Sydney Dental Aesthetics and Implants are the foremost leader in implant and Advanced Dental Surgery. Our mission is to bring the mostly highly trained doctors and innovative technology together with caring and compassionate staff, to offer our patients the pinnacle of specialised dental care. We pledge to value our patients and their needs above all else.
Awarded by the ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists) with the highest of qualifications; Sydney Dental Aesthetics and Implants is one of only a handful of practices in all of Australia to be named a Leading Implant Centre of the World.
Contact us today if you have any questions about zirconia dental implants, or if you would like to book a consultation. Our friendly and helpful staff will be more than happy to help.