Zirconia v Titantium Dental Implants

Most of the dental implants used in modern dentistry are made of titanium. This is because of its strong, light and biocompatible complexion (essentially meaning the body doesn’t reject it). The make-up of an implant is 3/4 titanium, with the remaining 1/4 made up of other materials including aluminium and vanadium – helping to give it additional strength.

The surface of a titanium is roughened/gritted under a powerful microscope in order to help the implant bond to the jaw bone just like your own natural teeth. The technique used to achieve this is usually sandblasting, followed by a thorough cleaning and sterilisation in a dental lab.

Their ceramic alternatives have been around for decades. However, more recent ceramic implants are made using the material Zirconium Dioxide (Zirconia). These are becoming increasingly popular among patients of all ages as they are completely white in appearance and just as strong and biocompatible.

Their ceramic nature also means they are more useful for people who may suffer from an allergy to titanium.