Patients who have recently committed to dental implant treatment will need to make many choices, including deciding whether they want titanium or ceramic dental implants. When selecting the right dental implant system for you, you will want to consider several important factors include pricing, safety, and reliability. But the many factors to consider can also make this process confusing. The material of the dental implant influences these factors. Here is more information for you about dental implants and details on the differences between titanium and ceramic implants.
Dental Implants
Today, dental implant treatment is one of the most popular treatments to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is a metal or ceramic post that is surgically placed in the jawbone. After the surgery, a several month healing period is required to allow time for the bone to fuse to the implant post. This fusing process is critical to the success of the dental implant. The resulting permanent and secure fit means that dental implants offer durability, comfort, and improved chewing and speaking function.
Titanium vs. Ceramic Dental Implants
The posts of the dental implant system are most commonly made from titanium or ceramic. There are many differences between titanium and ceramic implants, including:
Titanium Implants have been popular for decades and due to this popularity, are proven to be safe and effective. Titanium implants commonly come in a two part design which means they are easier to install and place in the bone. Additionally, titanium is strong, durable, and resistant to cracks and fractures.
Ceramic Implants are a newer implant design created in the early 2000s. Ceramic implant systems are commonly a one piece design, requiring a more challenging installation. Ceramic implants are a great option for patients who are allergic or sensitive to the metals used in titanium implants. Although there have been fewer years of research to document their success, patients with ceramic implants have been satisfied with their long-lasting results. Ceramic is more susceptible to cracks and fractures, but is easy to repair.
Pros and Cons
These major differences between titanium and ceramic implants that can impact important factors like price, appearance, and durability. Here are a few of the pros and cons of each material to consider:
* Price: Ceramic implants are often more expensive than titanium implants. This is because ceramic implants can be more expensive to produce and more challenging to install, both of which can increase the treatment costs.
* Appearance: Many providers believe that ceramic implants offer a superior appearance to titanium implants. This may be due to the fact that titanium implants are a greyish metal that may be visible near the gumline.
* Durability: Both titanium and ceramic implants are proven to be durable. Studies show titanium implants can last over 20 years. Although there is less evidence, ceramic implants are believed to be just as long-lasting.
When deciding on an implant system, there are many factors to consider. You should start by having a conversation with your dentist about the factors that are important to you, and how these may impact your choice of a titanium or ceramic implant.