Different Dental Implant Systems
If you are considering dental implants, it is important to understand your options. There are benefits to the various types of implants, one might be better than the other for you.
There are many factors to consider, including pricing, safety, and reliability. While some types of implants have been in use decades, recent developments and new products and procedures could yield better results. Some materials used in dental implants (titanium) may cause an allergic reaction in some patients.
The Basic Advantages for Dental Implants
Dental implants have become one of the most popular tooth restoration procedures available today, and have many benefits, including these:
- They function and look just like your natural teeth.
- Implants can improve your speech.
- You can eat all the foods you enjoy with no restrictions.
- Dental Implants are durable and long-lasting.
- They are far more comfortable than dentures.
- No slipping, adhesives, or discomfort.
- They perfectly match your natural teeth.
- Full sets, 4 on 1 implants, are available to replace top, bottom or both arches.
Ceramic versus Titanium Dental Implants
The two types of implants are ceramic implants and titanium implants. While they appear similar in appearance, there are differences between them. Ceramic implants are just one piece, and titanium implants include three, the post, the abutment, and the crown.
There are also differences in terms of pricing, healing, and how long they last. Titanium implants and ceramic implants both can become cracked and worn, although usually they last for decades.
- Titanium Implants- Titanium implants are an extraordinarily successful type of implant. They have been developed and tested since the 1960s. Titanium implants are strong and are resistant to cracks and fractures. Titanium implants are made up of three pieces and are easier to place correctly. With titanium implants, your dentist will place the implant and once stable and secure in the jaw structure, will add the tooth restoration, with more flexibility in placement for a very natural-looking placement.
- Ceramic Implants- Ceramic implants are a newer form of implant, but some patients prefer this type. Some patients might have an allergic reaction to titanium, and then ceramic implants are the only option. Ceramic implants have been used in the US since 2009, and longer in many European countries, but have not been used as long as titanium implants. Many dentists are using ceramic implants with satisfying and long-lasting results.
Dental Implant Differences
- Pricing- There is a price difference between the two types. Ceramic implants are more expensive than titanium implants due to the manufacturing cost, and because the procedure to correctly place the implants is more time-consuming.
- If you are choosing based on the best cosmetic results, ceramic implants may be the better option. With titanium implants, there is a slight risk that the color of the metal may eventually show through the gums.
- Which type is safer? - Both types of implants are safe. Both are FDA-approved and have gone through extensive testing. Titanium implants have been used longer, and any side effects or failures are understood more thoroughly.
- Which type lasts longer? - Both types have been shown to be long-lasting and both can be repaired. Titanium implants last for an average of 20 years, and if the crown is cracked or damaged, a new restoration can be placed on the titanium implant.
- Ceramic implants, also called zirconia implants, are also long-lasting, but as this type of implant was more recently approved, how long these implants last is not fully known.
- Which type of implant will heal more quickly? - Both implants involve implanting a base into the jawbone and they both require healing time. There is not a significant difference in healing time. For both types, you can expect initial discomfort for a week. After that, the healing process can be from three to six months. The implant will be integrating into your jaw during this period.
- Which type of dental implant is right for me? - When deciding which type of implant is best for you, much of the decision is your personal preference. Older patients with thinner gum tissue may prefer ceramic implants to avoid the risk of the metal showing through. Patients with concerns about an allergic reaction to titanium may choose ceramic implants.