When teeth are missing, the collective function of the mouth is negatively altered; therefore, replacing missing teeth is critical. Decades ago, there was a lack of metal-free implant options. Today, with truly metal-free implants, dentists are able to replace missing teeth while keeping biocompatibility and wellness in mind.

A dental implant is a surgical fixture that is placed in the bone in order to replace a tooth that is missing or has been removed because of trauma, decay or periodontal disease. Implants are the most ideal way to replace teeth because they engage the bone to stop it from wearing away. Unlike a bridge, they don’t require cutting tooth structure; and unlike a removable partial or complete denture, they are fixed and don’t require removal at night to clean.

Dental implants are the closest replacement available in modern dentistry to restore not only the appearance of a smile, but also the bite function. Implants are available in titanium or in a ceramic, metal-free substance called zirconia.

Zirconia is the more biocompatible option. Unlike titanium, it does not corrode in the mouth; it is bio-inert and does not conduct electrical charge; it has no allergic properties; it is tooth-colored and more esthetic, and it does not trap plaque, so gums are healthier.

Studies including “Ceramic Dental Implants: An Overview of Materials, Characteristics, and Application Concepts,” published by Compendium of Continuing Education in Dentistry, in Pennsylvania, shows better gum health around zirconia implants, as well as a lack of true allergy or asssociated neurological ailments. Plaque does not accumulate around zirconia the way it does around metal, which means a cleaner and healthier mouth.