When you hear the word “implant”, you probably think of something that’s artificial and doesn’t look natural. However, the reverse is true when it comes to zirconia dental implants. These are strategically manufactured devices for replacing the roots of your teeth. They are mostly made from a combination of zirconia that is blue in colour and titanium so they can appear almost translucent. Here are some quick facts about zirconia teeth implants. The surgery takes places in 2 stages: Placement of the implant. Fitting the crown; both of which can be completed in single sitting.
What is a Zirconia Dental Implant?
A Zirconia dental implant is a medical device that is placed in a patient’s mouth to replace a missing tooth. It is usually made from two main materials: zirconia and titanium. Zirconia is a synthetic, crystalline ceramic that is very durable and long-lasting. Dental implants are very strong and can withstand the daily pressures of chewing with little to no issues. People who don’t have teeth or have lost them due to injury, gum disease, or old age are usually advised to get dental implants. You can get a full-mouth zirconia dental implant in a single sitting.
Zirconia is an ideal material for dental implants. It’s bioinert, which means that it will never trigger chemical reactions, migrate to other sites in the body or corrode. That’s why it’s the non-metal alternative to titanium. Its naturally white color also makes it a great choice for patients.
How are Zirconia Implants made?
Zirconia implants are made from a blue-coloured zirconia ceramic that is highly resistant to wear. As the ceramic is very strong, resistant to chemicals and has high thermal conductivity, it is an ideal material for making dental implants. First, the zirconia ceramic is mixed with titanium in a solid solution to produce a paste-like mixture. Next, the mixture is placed in a rotating machine that forms bars.
These bars are then sent to be machined into the final shape of the dental implants. Finally, the implants are sent to a sterilisation machine to be sterilised to kill all harmful bacteria. Zirconia dental implants do not corrode easily, so they will last a lifetime. Zirconia is a relatively new treatment, and so the lifespan is unknown. Long-term data is not available yet. However, if properly cared for, they are expected to last for 15-20 years or more, similar to titanium implants.
Stages of Zirconia Dental Implant
Primary: As soon as the implant is inserted into the gums, it starts to stimulate your body’s natural healing process. Your body will start to form a fibrous capsule around the implant, which will secure it in place. At this point, the implant is usually stable enough to place a false tooth or teeth on top of it.
Secondary: Once you start using your teeth again, the teeth and the surrounding bone will start to fuse. This will make the implant even more secure. Once the implant has been in place for about a year, you can start to clean your mouth normally. You can even brush and floss your teeth as often as you would like to.
Benefits of using Zirconia Dental Implant
Zirconia implants can last a lifetime. They are very durable and can withstand the daily pressures of chewing with little to no issues. They are stain-resistant, which means they won’t discolour over time. Zirconia implants can match the colour of your natural teeth. Zirconia implants are easy to repair if they get damaged. You can simply get a new implant made and be as good as new.
Disadvantages of Zirconia Implants
Zirconia teeth implants are very strong, but they can break, which is why some doctors prefer using other materials when creating dental implants. You have to be careful when placing them because they are brittle and can snap if you apply too much force. They can’t be used if you have a nickel allergy because they contain traces of nickel. Zirconia dental implants can have a shorter lifespan if they’re placed in people with weaker immune systems.
Final Words
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth. They are long-lasting and come in many different colours and shades. You can choose zirconia implants if you want to get a beautiful, white smile. Are very durable and can withstand the daily pressures of chewing with little to no issues. They are also much less expensive than other implant materials.
Suggested Article:
- Do’s and Don’ts after Dental Implants
- Advantages of metal-free implants?
- Choosing Zirconia or Titanium Implants
