Today, medicine offers a wide range of materials for making dental implants. This variety allows dentists to select the best solution for each patient. In this article, we will discuss the most popular materials for dental implants and their advantages.

Titanium

Titanium is one of the most tested and reliable materials for dental implants. Here’s why it has been used for decades:

▪️ It is strong and can withstand significant chewing pressure.

▪️ Lightweight but resistant to corrosion, even in the moist environment of the mouth.

▪️ It almost never causes allergic reactions and is well accepted by the body.

The only downside of titanium is its color. If the gums are thin, a dark shade may slightly show through, which is why ceramic implants are often chosen for front teeth. However, titanium remains the gold standard in dentistry. It is used in 70% of implantation cases because it combines reliability, durability, and safety.

Ceramics

Ceramic implants, especially those made of zirconium oxide, are gaining popularity due to their aesthetic appeal. They have the following characteristics:

▪️ Visual similarity to natural teeth.

▪️ Strength and resistance to wear, with implants not deforming over time.

▪️ Good body acceptance and lack of allergic reactions.

Ceramics fuse well with bone and do not stain the gums, making them an excellent choice for front teeth. However, they are less flexible than titanium. These implants are not used in the chewing area as they can break when subjected to chewing forces.

Titanium-Ceramic Implants

Titanium-ceramic implants are a combined solution that combines the best properties of both materials:

▪️ The ceramic part provides a natural tooth-like appearance, making them aesthetically pleasing.

▪️ The titanium base ensures strength and durability, securely anchoring the implant.

This material is more expensive but provides an optimal combination of appearance and functionality.

Polymers

Polymers for dental implants are used less frequently, but they offer certain advantages:

▪️ They are significantly lighter than metal or ceramic implants.

▪️ Easily processed, allowing the creation of implants suitable for specific conditions.

They are mostly used for temporary implants as they are less resistant to mechanical stress.

Zirconium Implants

Zirconium is a next-generation material that looks natural and is well accepted by the body. It also has the following advantages:

▪️ White color that does not show through the gums.

▪️ Free of metals, making it suitable for individuals with sensitivity to titanium.

▪️ It does not oxidize and maintains its properties.

▪️ It integrates with bone tissue without complications.

The main drawback of zirconium implants is their lower flexibility compared to titanium. Therefore, they are more susceptible to excessive pressure.

How to Choose the Best Material for Dental Implants?

The choice of material for dental implants depends on various factors, including functional requirements and aesthetic preferences of the patient. Titanium is the strongest and most reliable, while ceramics and zirconium are ideal for a natural look. Titanium-ceramic implants combine aesthetics and functionality, but are significantly more expensive. Before making a decision, it’s best to consult with a doctor, who will help choose the best option.