Have you ever wondered what dental implants are made of? Dental implants replace missing teeth roots and (once restored with a crown, bridge, or denture) provide a long-term solution to your dental needs by mimicking the look and feel of natural teeth. But, many people are curious about the materials used in creating them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the materials used in the construction of dental implants, what to expect during the treatment process, and who may be a good candidate.
Common Dental Implant Materials
Dental implants are a great solution for those with missing or failing teeth. Although man-made, dental implants are designed to replicate the function and cleansibility of your natural teeth. Common materials used in dental implants:
- Titanium: Titanium is the most commonly used dental implant material. It’s an incredibly strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant metal, making it an ideal choice for dental implants. In addition, it’s biocompatible, meaning it fuses well to your jawbone over time.
- Zirconia: Zirconium is also a metal, resistant to corrosion, and similar to titanium used in dental implants. When Zirconium is oxidized to form Zirconium oxide, however, a compound commonly referred to as Zirconia, it becomes a ceramic alternative for dental implants. Zirconia is very strong but inelastic and can be prone to micro-cracks. Zirconia is even more biocompatible, though, for those with rare titanium metal allergies, and Zirconia implants, due to their white color, are less visible through thin bone or gum tissues.
Dental Implant Process
Dental implants replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution for tooth loss. The implant treatment process is multifaceted, but the five key steps include:
- Assessment: Patients must first undergo a clinical & radiographic examination to determine their suitability for treatment. During this consultation, the oral surgeon assesses your total health and performs an initial evaluation.
- Placement: Next, the oral surgeon will place one or more dental implants into your jawbone. These replacement teeth roots serve as the foundation for new artificial teeth.
- Healing Period: Over the next several weeks, the dental implants fuse with your jawbone in a process known as osseointegration. This process takes anywhere from three to six months.
- Restoration: Once the dental implants have fused with your surrounding jawbone, the final step is fabricating a custom restoration (a crown, a bridge, or denture) to place on top of the dental implants. Once completed, your restoration will be securely attached to the dental implants, replacing your missing teeth and restoring your smile.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t smoke cigarettes, and have enough jawbone for dental implants (either naturally or through bone grafting), dental implants may be an excellent choice for you. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants is to consult with a qualified dental professional, like an oral surgeon.
Dental Implants in Manchester, NH
Manchester Oral Surgery is a trusted source for dental implant services in Manchester, NH. With our skilled oral surgeon (Dr. Abel) and a commitment to patient-focused treatment, we provide a variety of dental implant options with quality care. To learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your desired smile, contact us today by calling Manchester Oral Surgery at 603-622-9441.