If you find yourself in need of dental implants, you will likely be faced with two common options: titanium and ceramic. Which one is better for you? How do titanium vs. ceramic dental implants compare, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each? With an increase of interest in how dental implants can affect overall health, patients have become more concerned with the type of implant material they choose.
What Is a Titanium Implant?
Titanium dental implants have been a part of the industry for over 65 years, so there has been plenty of research on their efficiency. Titanium is a strong metal known for its durability, and the implants are made of a specific titanium alloy. A titanium implant consists of three parts:
- A metal screw that’s inserted into the jawbone and merges with it (this is called osseointegration),
- A metal post, which is called an abutment,
- A crown, which is a porcelain artificial tooth, that goes on top of the abutment.
What Is a Ceramic Implant?
Ceramic dental implants are also called zirconia implants because they consist of a material called zirconium dioxide. This is technically a crystal form of the metal Zirconium, but these implants are considered metal-free. Zirconium dioxide is transformed into a white material that closely resembles the color of natural teeth before it can be used for an implant. This type of implant consists of one piece only, making it entirely different from a titanium one.
Titanium vs. Ceramic Dental Implants — How Do They Compare?
When we compare ceramic dental implants vs. titanium ones, the first difference that comes to mind is their prevalence. Titanium implants have been around for much longer, which means they are the dominant option. However, ceramic ones have been gaining a lot of popularity in recent years, especially among patients with sensitivities and allergic reactions to various metals.
Still, they are considered an alternative choice, and not every Charlotte, NC, dentist offers them. Now, let’s compare these two options, so you know which to choose when you visit the best implant dentist in Charlotte, NC.
The Aesthetic Appeal of the Implant
For many patients, aesthetics is one of the main concerns. In this area, ceramic implants are a clear winner. The color of Zirconium dioxide is the perfect shade of white we all want to see in a smile. On the other hand, titanium implants can have a subtle shade of gray that can be seen through the gum line. This doesn’t make them displeasing, but it can be of concern for certain patients.
The Differences in Biocompatibility
Both materials are highly biocompatible. Titanium is suitable for most people, and titanium implants have proven themselves over several decades – they can last up to 25 years without a problem. The metal merges with the bone seamlessly without causing any inflammatory reaction – the body doesn’t perceive it as a foreign body.
Still, there is a minority of people who are allergic or sensitive to this metal. For them, ceramic is the best choice. This metal-free alternative is also highly biocompatible and offers functionality of a similar level. The surface of ceramic implants is inert, which means they can’t cause immune or allergic reactions.
The Durability and Strength of the Materials
It’s safe to say that both implant types are very strong and won’t be affected by everyday chewing, regardless of what kind of food you prefer. Still, we must note that titanium implants are slightly stronger. The risk of cracks or damage is lower compared to their ceramic counterparts.
Plus, titanium ones are more stable because they’re not represented by a single piece. Ceramic ones are less stable simply due to their one-piece design. Of course, this design also has its advantages because it mitigates the accumulation of bacteria, which can make their way between two parts of the titanium implant.
The Differences in the Cost
We must consider all the benefits of dental implants, not just their price. But if you’re still torn between the two, the difference in cost can help you decide. The financial aspect is important for patients who need several implants. The winner in this round is a titanium implant – it costs about $300 less than a ceramic one.
Which Material Is Better in Terms of Osseointegration?
There is sufficient data to support the claim that titanium fuses seamlessly with the bone in the process called osseointegration. The 10-year success rate for titanium implants is 97%. The ceramic implants are equally good when it comes to osseointegration. However, this process can take a bit longer with ceramic implants, which means that your healing period would be slightly longer compared to healing after getting a titanium implant.
Which Type of Implant Shows Better Results in the Long Run?
We know titanium implants would serve you well for decades. But for ceramic ones, there’s simply not enough research to claim the same. They are still relatively new, and there aren’t many long-term studies about their effectiveness in the long run. For now, they seem promising, and there’s no reason to think this will change in the near future.
Make the Final Decision with the Help of a Reputable Charlotte Dentist in South Park
You don’t have to decide between titanium and ceramic implants on your own. Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness, led by the top cosmetic dentist in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, can help you choose the best option for your oral health. Contact us today to reserve your first appointment, and we’ll conduct the necessary consultation to come up with the treatment plan.
