Metal Free Dental Implants

The latest advance in dental implants from Europe are now available at Millennium Dental Associates. Millennium Dental practitioners have completed a manufacturer’s training program on the surgical placement and prosthetic restoration of these Zirconium Oxide, non-metallic dental implants. Below is a general description of non-metal dental implants, their type, placement and restoration

Non-Metal Dental Implants and Biological Dentistry

For many years, dental implants have been used for tooth replacement, and implants have become common in modern dentistry. Over time, different types of materials have been used to create the dental implants, and non-metal dental implants are becoming more popular with both patients and biological dentists.

There are several unique aspects to using a non-metal dental implant instead of a metal implant, including:

The implant helps to eliminate bone deterioration that can occur over time
Food can be chewed normally, because the tooth feels and functions the same as natural teeth
The implant has a natural look and it blends well with the rest of the teeth in the mouth
Reduced risk of allergy or sensitivity issues, because some people are sensitive to metal

Additionally, biological dentists have been concerned about “oral galvanism,” which is the electrical effect that can occur in a person’s mouth when metal materials are used. When metal is used for fillings or to replace missing teeth, a low-level electrical current can be formed because the saliva in the mouth connects all of the metal pieces. It has been said that this electrical current can have a negative impact on health, which is why biological dentists often use non-metal implants instead. Non-metal implants are considered to be safer in the long run.

When Should an Implant Be Used?

Dental implants can be used when a tooth has been damaged beyond repair. They are a good alternative to a dental bridge, which is the process where a fake tooth is held in place by attaching it to the teeth on either side. Implants may also be used is as an alternative to dentures, and the implant is preferred instead of dentures because an implant is feels like the natural tooth is in place.

If you have lost a tooth due to an accident, or if the tooth was damaged because of tooth decay or periodontal disease, then you may consider using a dental implant to replace the lost tooth. A dental implant may replace one tooth, or implants can be created with several teeth in a single implant.

What Types of Non-Metal Implants are Available?

Traditionally, titanium was used to create the implants, but new types of non-metal implants are now available. Many non-metal implants are created using Zirconium Oxide, also known as Zirconia, and it is a ceramic type of material. One of the biggest advantage to this material is the fact that it has a natural white color, instead of the silver color of titanium. Zirconia has shown to be more durable than titanium, it does not easily corrode, has a higher bending strength, and it is harder and more dense than titanium.

One advantage to Zirconia dental implants is the fact that they are not as sensitive to temperatures, so the patient doesn’t experience as much discomfort from hot or cold foods. They are also resistant to the natural acids that are created in your mouth for food digestion.

How Dental Implants are Placed in the Mouth

Two kinds of dental implants are used by dental professionals: “endosteal” which are implants that are placed into the bone, as well as “subperiosteal” which are implants that are placed onto the bone. Endosteal implants are the most common, and they are placed in the jaw bone by drilling a small hole into the bone and then using a screw to hold the implant in place.

The process to have a dental implant placed in your mouth starts with an initial examination to determine if the implant is the right solution for your mouth. Once it has been determined that an implant is needed, the next appointment is usually the time when the implant is placed. Usually, the implant will be placed under the gums and remain there for 3 to 6 months. During this waiting period, the jawbone bonds biologically to the implant, and a temporary bridge or denture is used. A soft diet must be followed for the first few weeks.

After 3 to 6 months, the gums are opened up to uncover the implant, and a post is attached. 2 to 6 weeks later, the implant is finished when the replacement tooth is fitted into the mouth. The overall treatment time is different depending on the patient, but most people are finished with the process within 5 to 8 months.