You may know that dental implants are one of the most stable options for replacing missing teeth. Most standard dental implants are made of metal, specifically titanium mixed with a variety of other metals.
However, a new alternative is now available which is not made of metal. There are several advantages to choosing non-metal dental implants. The providers at Whole Body Dental explain more about why you may want to consider non-metal dental implants.
If you’re missing a tooth, it’s essential to replace it. Missing teeth change the structure of your face and can also impact your chewing ability.
You can choose other options like a dental bridge. But a dental implant is significantly more stable in your mouth than a dental bridge and it’s also permanent, which a bridge is not.
Getting a dental implant involves having a post implanted into your jaw, although we first confirm that your jaw has enough healthy tissue to allow the implant. The post then fuses to your jawbone over 3-4 months.
Once the post is successfully fused to your jawbone, we put a crown on top. The finished result is secure and looks just like any of your natural teeth.
Most dental implants use metal posts to fuse with your jaw. However, this is less than ideal for many reasons. Here are 4 benefits of choosing non-metal dental implants.
Although they are relatively rare, it is possible to have allergic reactions to titanium implant posts. Titanium itself isn’t allergenic but it’s often mixed with other metals that can cause allergic reactions.
These allergic reactions can have serious negative health effects. If you’re allergic to the titanium ions, they can cause irritation and inflammation in your gums, which can even lead to the development of autoimmune disorders.
One of the effects that many people don’t expect is the fact that titanium posts can appear black under your gums. You can avoid this if you get a non-metal dental implant because they don’t show through your gums.
Although it is rare, one of the biggest potential drawbacks of metal implants is that they can corrode or even rust over time. Your saliva, jawbone, and the implant itself interact in ways that can lead to the material getting damaged over time.
Traditional dentistry uses titanium-based implants, largely because that’s how it’s always been done. However, modern dentists are more open to new ideas and alternatives. In many cases, newer materials like zirconia or ceramic are significantly better for you as the patient.
We'd be happy to discuss your options if you're considering getting dental implants. Contact the providers at Whole Body Dental in Bellevue, Washington, or request an appointment online.