Having metal sensitivities can create frustration when trying to do many of the things that allergy-free people take for granted. In fact, you may have been led to believe that one of those activities is restoring your smile with durable, lifelike dental implants. But don’t despair! While it’s true that the most common type of post used in this treatment is made of titanium, many patients don’t realize that these life-changing prosthetics are also available in metal free zirconia options, too! Here’s a closer look at some of their incredible benefits.
Why Dental Implants Are Usually Made of Titanium
Believe it or not, while dental implants are a relatively new treatment, people have been trying for centuries to permanently replace missing teeth. It dates all the way back to the Etruscans, who tried inserting things like seashells, gemstones, and gold into the jaw. Unfortunately, however, these methods didn’t work, and although many attempts were made over the years, it wasn’t until the 1960’s that dentists found success with titanium.
This durable metal was not only the first material to successfully stand up to the rigors of regularly chewing a variety of tough and crunchy foods, but it also was discovered to be biocompatible with human bones, allowing it to permanently fuse with the jaw via a process called osseointegration.
The Benefits of Zirconia Dental Implants
Unfortunately, while titanium has proven itself to be durable and long-lasting, for patients with metal allergies, this news isn’t exactly helpful. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t still restore their smile with dental implants. That’s because in 1987, dentists discovered that zirconia, a metal-free porcelain, could do the same job as titanium, but without causing irritation or sensitivity to those who are allergic to metals.
Zirconia dental implants boast several important benefits over traditional titanium prosthetics, including:
- They’re white instead of silver, meaning they look more natural and are ideal for patients who have suffered from gum recession in the past.
- Because they contain no metal, they are safe for those with sensitivities or allergies.
- They are non-corrosive.
- They are less likely to accumulate plaque than titanium implants, helping your mouth stay healthy and reducing your risk of prosthesis failure.
Qualifying for Dental Implants
Now that you know there’s a tooth replacement solution for people with metal allergies, it’s time to find out if you qualify for treatment. To be a good candidate for dental implants, you should be in excellent oral health and free of gum disease. If you have experienced bone deterioration, you may require preliminary care such as a sinus lift or bone graft before your jaw is strong enough to support your new prosthetics. However, the best way to ensure that this procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. There, you can discuss your smile goals, as well as any allergies or sensitivities that could affect your treatment.
Remember, metal sensitivity may make it harder to buy costume jewelry, but it doesn’t have to stand in the way of restoring your healthy, beautiful smile. If you’d like to replace missing teeth with durable, lifelike dental implants despite suffering from allergies, schedule a consultation with your dentist today to learn more about how zirconia restorations could help bring back your gorgeous grin!
About Dr. Lopez
Dr. Jay Lopez is truly an expert in the field of dentistry, with a keen interest in restoring smiles with dental implants. He earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Arizona, and his dental doctorate at the University of Colorado Health Science Center School of Dentistry. He is also a graduate, mentor, and instructor at the esteemed Kois Center in Seattle. To learn more about zirconia dental implants and to see if you qualify, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lopez today by visiting our website or calling 520-886-8090.