Few things are as magical as a first smile after years of embarrassment about your teeth. Dental implants are one of the tools that we use to restore functionality and beauty to the smiles of our patients with missing or damaged teeth. For many years, our surgeons have used state-of-the-art titanium dental implants with excellent results. We’re excited to introduce a new treatment option for permanent teeth replacement, metal-free zirconia implants.
Learn more about metal-free dental implants in Austin, TX by calling Hill Country Oral Surgery at 512-327-7233.
Metal-Free Dental Implants – A New Option for Patients
Dental implants serve as a replacement for missing or damaged teeth. The base of the implant is placed into the jawbone, where it integrates during the healing process. Traditionally, the base of the implant is made from titanium, a strong and corrosion-resistant material. Our metal-free implants are made from zirconia, a strong ceramic material that never corrodes.
We still offer titanium dental implants and use them often. They are ideal in many situations, including for patients that require a bridge anchored by implants. Our new zirconia implants aren’t a replacement for titanium ones, but another option. Come in for a consultation, and we’ll help you choose between titanium and metal-free zirconia implants.
Let’s explore the benefits of metal-free dental implants.
Ideal for Patients with Metal Allergies
Titanium allergies are rare, affecting less than 1% of patients tested in a study. However, 1% adds up quickly. In the Austin, TX area alone there are potentially thousands of people with a titanium allergy. Zirconia is a ceramic material, not a metal. Patients with a titanium allergy can receive zirconia implants with no risk of an allergic reaction.
Beautiful, Natural-Looking Appearance
Zirconia is white, offering a similar appearance to natural tooth and bone. Occasionally, titanium implant posts will show through the gumline, casting a greyish appearance on the area. This is most common in patients with thin gum tissue. This discoloration doesn’t occur with zirconia implants. Metal-free implants create a beautiful, natural looking smile.
New Two Piece Design
Metal-free dental implants used to only have a one piece design. This greatly limited the clinical situations in which it could be used. Newer technology has now introduced a two-piece, metal-free design. This technology now allows us to serve a greater population of people without compromising on treatment.
Single Tooth Replacement
Currently, zirconia implants are best suited for a singular tooth replacement. Patients that need to replace multiple teeth will likely require titanium implants. We offer All-On-4 arch replacement using titanium implants for patients requiring full arch smile restoration.
Zirconia or Titanium Dental Implants- Which Option Should I Choose?
There are benefits to both zirconia and titanium implants. We use both in our practice and love seeing the new smiles that these implants create. Come in for a consultation, and we can explore options with you. Some patients will benefit from a zirconia implant, some from a titanium dental implant, and some will achieve beautiful results with either option. Call us to schedule your consultation and get your smile back. Our metal-free dental implants expand your options for tooth restoration.
