Dental Implant Materials
Oral Surgeon Dallas
Tooth loss can be caused by tooth decay, infection, or injury. No matter how a tooth is lost, lost and missing teeth should be replaced as soon as possible. When you lose a tooth, it can affect your ability to chew, change your facial appearance, harm the jawbone, and lower your self-esteem.
In recent decades, dental implants have proven to be an ideal restoration method for missing teeth. They are capable of providing all the benefits of a natural tooth and can last a lifetime when properly cared for. At Dallas Oral Surgery Associates, our surgeons suggest replacing a lost tooth with a dental implant over other procedures, as the dental implant procedure is more reliable and stable.
Dental Implant Procedure
Every dental implant procedure will vary based on the patient. During your consultation, our team will examine the health of your jawbone and the type of implant needed to plan the ideal implant treatment. This thorough examination is conducted using x-rays, 3D imaging, and a model of your teeth and jaw. We will also go over your medical history to help us develop an ideal treatment plan and minimize the risk of any complications.
The dental implant procedure from consultation to recovery can take up to six months. Typically, treatment involves these steps:
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The damaged teeth are removed
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Bone grafting (if the jawbone is not strong enough to handle the implant)
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The dental implant and temporary crown are placed
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The bone grows and heals around the implant
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The gums are allowed to heal
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The temporary crown is removed, an abutment is attached to the implant, and the permanent crown is placed |
Dental Implant Materials
Initially, only titanium was used in manufacturing dental implants. Now, thanks to changes in dental technology, we have been able to use zirconia and polymers in creating implants. All implant materials are researched extensively before they are approved for use in dental implants. To be approved for surgical use, dental implant materials must have the following characteristics:
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Should be biocompatible
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Should have proper composition and microstructure
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Should be resistant to corrosion and fracturing
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Should be able to withstand biting and chewing forces
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The implant’s design principles should be compatible with the physical properties of the material |
The two major dental implant materials are:
Titanium
Titanium’s unique, biocompatible characteristics were first discovered in 1950. Today, it is considered the best and most sought-after dental implant material. Commercially, pure titanium has multiple trace elements such as oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, and iron that improve its mechanical capabilities and make it a viable option for dental implants. Titanium can allow the bone to grow correctly around a dental implant screw, create a permanent affinity, and resist corrosion. With its frequent use in dental implant treatment, titanium has proven to be long-lasting, reasonable, and reliable.
Zirconia
Zirconia is a popular metal-free alternative to dental implants, making it a viable option for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities. It is a hard, robust material and can be used to make both dental implants and bridges. Like titanium, it is able to fuse to the bone when placed. Zirconia is less likely to corrode than titanium, but it is more likely to fracture. Titanium is often considered the superior material because it can be customized into a two-piece system and is biocompatible.
Contact Us
For more information on dental implant materials or to schedule an appointment for a dental implant procedure, call us today at 214-363-9946. |
