Titanium Dental Implants
Through recent enhancements in dentistry, dental implants are now available as a great solution for the replacement of missing teeth. This solution gives patients the ability to have a smile they are proud of, be confident, and enjoy the foods they love. Implants also eliminate many of the limitations found in traditional, removable dentures. Dental implants are unique in that they work by fusing to the bone as the body heals. The “roots” which form from the implant serve as an incredibly strong and secure base for the prosthetic tooth. In many ways, dental implants are similar in their function and appearance to the patient’s natural teeth.
There are three main components which make up a dental implant. This includes the implant screw or post, the abutment, and the permanent crown. The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone. Once it fuses to the jawbone, the abutment is attached. In the final step, the crown is placed. This gives the implant a very natural appearance which is nearly identical to the natural teeth. The implant is typically created from titanium, although other biocompatible materials can also be used.
In 1952, a scientist from Sweden by the name of Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark found that titanium could securely bond to the bone. Since this discovery, titanium is most often used in dental implants, knee and joint replacements and other types of prostheses devices.
Because the titanium implants is surgically placed in the jawbone, the implant has an incredibly strong base. When the bone fuses to the implant, it closely mimics a natural tooth root. Another type of implant is sub-periosteal. This type of implant is placed above the jawbone and below the gum. Due to the placement of the implant, this type of implant is not nearly as strong or durable over time.
Some of the key benefits associated with titanium implants are highlighted below.
Titanium is known for being incredibly strong. However, is it also extremely lightweight. It is surprisingly stronger and lighter than steel. It is also able to return to the original shape after being bent.
In addition to its ability to fuse to the bone, titanium is nontoxic, non-allergenic, and is easily accepted by the body and not treated as a foreign object or rejected. As a result, titanium implants can last for many decades.
Titanium is considered to be a corrosion-resistant alloy material. It achieves this protection by forming a protective layer of titanium dioxide. This protective layer makes it quite difficult for materials such as water and chemicals to penetrate through.
Zirconium
Zirconium is a popular alternative material used for implants. Although it has only been in use for a few years, data suggest it is equally as successful at fusing to the bone as titanium. The overall success rate for zirconium implants are equivalent to those from titanium implants.
Unfortunately, not all patients are good candidates for dental implants. In many cases, the patient often lacks the adequate bone structure required to properly support the implant. Fortunately, another solution is available which uses mini implants and can be used in cases where there is less jaw bone. Mini implants, as indicated by the name, are simply smaller. They can also eliminate the need for a patient to undergo the tedious procedure of receiving a bone graft.
The dental implant procedure requires a dental professional with relevant experience and an individual has completed specialized training. In order to ensure the procedure is successful, it is important for patients to choose a board-certified dentist or oral surgeon who specializes in implants. Follow up with your dentist to determine if you may be a good candidate for titanium implants.