Dental Implant Materials
Russellville, AL
 A dental implant is a screw-like post that acts as a replacement for a tooth root. It is fixed into the jawbone, causing it to bond over time.
Dental implants provide a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth that are installed in place to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. Implants are a popular tooth replacement option as they look and function just like your original teeth.
Request an Appointment
Dental Implant Materials
Dental implants have been historically made of titanium. However, with advancements in dentistry, different materials are now being used to create implants. Materials used to produce dental implants undergo rigorous research. The physical and chemical properties that have an impact on their clinical applications are carefully examined.
Dental implant materials must be biocompatible, that is, they should be able to bond well with the human jawbone. Moreover, implants must be resistant to fracturing or wear and tear. Two common materials used to create dental implants are:
Titanium
Titanium used in implants can either be pure or an alloy. Pure titanium tends to have trace elements, such as oxygen, iron, nitrogen, and carbon. On the other hand, alloys are usually combined with elements like aluminum and vanadium. Titanium implants have a success rate of 95%, and can last for a long time if you maintain good oral habits. However, a small ratio of people may have an allergic reaction to titanium.
Moreover, some people have aesthetic concerns when it comes to titanium implants. If the gum line thins out or recedes, a visible dark patch may be visible under the gums where the implant is placed.
Zirconia
Zirconia implants have become a popular alternative to titanium ones. It is made of a ceramic material that is hypoallergenic, which implies that it does not result in any sensitivities or allergies. These implants are the color of your natural teeth, making them unnoticeable under the gums. Just like titanium, zirconia is also biocompatible.
A zirconia implant is a single piece that contains both the post and abutment, barely leaving room for errors. However, the healing process may be more complex as the implant cannot be entirely concealed beneath the gum tissue and movement could interfere with osseointegration.
Dental implants are effective replacements for severely decayed or damaged teeth. Here are some of the major benefits of implants:
Bone Loss Prevention
When you lose a tooth, you also tend to lose bone mass in your jawbone. The jawbone requires the stimulation it receives when your teeth connect. Dental implants prevent bone loss by providing jawbone stimulation.
Bite Force Restoration
Dental implants are firmly fixed to your jawbone to replace the tooth root. They allow you to bite with the same amount of pressure as your original teeth. Other tooth replacement procedures usually do not restore bite force adequately as they simply sit on top of the gums without being inserted in place.
Easy to Maintain
You do not need any special products to care for dental implants. Simply brush and floss regularly, just like you do to take care of your natural teeth. There is no requirement for tools such as cleaning tablets, cups, adhesives, or special flossers.
Contact Us Today!
Dental implants, whether made of titanium or zirconia, have the benefit of being long-lasting and durable tooth replacement options. If you have a tooth missing, a dental implant may be just what you need. Schedule a dental exam with us at Singing River Dentistry by calling us at 256-460-4191 today.
Request an Appointment
|
