TL;DR
- Dental implants replace missing teeth and act as artificial roots. Here are some materials used for implant posts:
- Titanium is strong, durable, biocompatible, and has a high success rate.
- Zirconia is metal-free, natural-looking, and suitable for patients with allergies.
- Hybrid implants combine titanium strength with ceramic aesthetics.
- Single dental implants cost $1,000-$4,000, with extra procedures affecting the price.
- Implants can last 10-30 years, depending on the material and care.
- Maintain implants with daily brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.
- Avoid smoking, hard foods, and grinding teeth to protect implants.
- Eat a balanced diet to maintain bone and gum health.
- Report any discomfort or swelling to your dentist promptly.
What are Dental Implants and What Are They Made Of?
Dental implants have become a dependable solution for people who wish to replace missing or damaged teeth. They function as artificial tooth roots, supporting crowns, bridges, or dentures, and help restore both the function and appearance of your smile. Many patients, however, naturally wonder what dental implants are made of, especially since the choice of material can directly affect how the body responds.
Some people may have allergies, sensitivities, or other health concerns that make certain materials less suitable. Others may want to know which option is most durable or compatible with their oral health. That’s why we’ve put together a clear guide on the different materials used in dental implants and what to consider before your procedure.
Different Types of Implant Material
A common question we hear is, “What is a dental implant made of?” and the specialists at Le Sueur Family Dental are here with clear answers. Some common types of implant material include:
- Titanium
Titanium has been the go-to material for implant posts for many years. Its strength and resistance to wear make it ideal for replacing missing teeth. It is also highly compatible with the body, so the risk of irritation or rejection is very low. Most importantly, titanium implants have a success rate of nearly 95% over 10 years, which makes them a safe and long-lasting solution.
- Zirconia
A relatively recent discovery for dental implants, zirconia is usually recommended for patients with metal allergies. One of its key advantages is its natural white color, which can be advantageous for patients with thin or receding gums, preventing a gray shadow from showing. Zirconia implants are also highly biocompatible and promote excellent soft tissue healing. However, zirconia can be more prone to fractures and is significantly more expensive than titanium.
- Hybrid Implants
Hybrid implants combine the durability of titanium with the aesthetics of zirconia. The titanium core ensures strong osseointegration (the natural process where bone tissue grows and fuses tightly with the implant surface). A ceramic coating gives them a natural, tooth-like appearance, ideal for patients concerned about visible metal.
How to Choose the Right Material for Dental Implants?
Now that you know what dental implants are made of, here are some factors you should consider when making a choice:
- Biocompatibility: Make sure to check for any metal allergies or sensitivities, as this can influence which implant material is suitable for you.
- Aesthetic Preferences: If a natural appearance is important, talk to your dentist about options like zirconia, which blends seamlessly with your teeth.
- Placement in the Mouth: The position of the missing tooth can affect material choice. For instance, molars may require stronger materials, while front teeth may prioritize aesthetics.
- Longevity and Durability: Titanium implants are known for their long-term success, but zirconia implants are also showing promise.
- Bone Quality and Quantity: If you have low bone density or volume, titanium implants are often preferred because they integrate more predictably with weaker bone.
- Cost Considerations: Implant materials vary in price, so it’s wise to consider your budget alongside other factors when deciding.
What Is the Cost of Dental Implants?
How much a dental implant will cost depends on several factors, including the location, what dental implants are made of, and the complexity of the case. A single dental implant can cost around $1,000 to $4,000. The price may change if other procedures, like bone grafting or sinus lifts, are needed.
If you don’t have insurance coverage, this could burn a hole in your pocket. However, Le Sueur Family Dental provides financial assistance to their patients through various services, such as dental financing, Le Sueur Family Dental plan, and patient specials.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are meant to be permanent as they fuse with the jawbone through osseointegration. On average, they can last between 10 and 30 years, but their lifespan depends on what dental implants are made of and how well they are cared for.
Tips to Extend the Longevity of Dental Implants
Here are some tips that can increase the lifespan of your dental implants:
- Brush your teeth at least twice every day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to keep your implants clean.
- Avoid smoking and using tobacco products, as they can harm your implants.
- Be careful with hard foods, and avoid chewing ice or very tough items.
- If you grind your teeth at night, use a night guard to protect your implants.
- Eat a balanced diet with sufficient calcium, vitamin D, and protein to support bone and gum health.
- Visit your dentist periodically for check-ups and professional cleaning.
- Report any pain, swelling, or discomfort around your implants to your dentist immediately.
Conclusion
Understanding what dental implants are made of can help you make informed decisions about your oral health and choose the one that best suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Each material, whether titanium, zirconia, or a hybrid, has its own benefits, and considering factors like durability, aesthetics, and biocompatibility is key to long-term success.
Equally important is selecting a skilled dentist to perform the procedure. If you are looking for a trusted dentist in Le Sueur, MN, our team at Le Sueur Family Dental is here to help. We are committed to providing high-quality implants that not only look and feel natural but also give you lasting comfort and confidence.
To book your appointment, call us at (507) 665-6812 or visit us in person at 219 South 2nd Street, Le Sueur, MN 56058.
FAQs
Why is titanium the most popular material for dental implants?
Titanium is strong, long-lasting, and integrates well with the jawbone, with very low risk of allergic reactions.
What are the main benefits of zirconia dental implants?
Zirconia is metal-free, naturally white, resistant to corrosion, and suitable for those with metal sensitivities.
Can the type of implant material affect healing time?
Yes. Titanium often bonds with the bone faster, while zirconia may take slightly longer but remains stable over time.
What are dental implants made of?
They are usually made from titanium or zirconia. Some implants combine materials for specific needs.
How long do dental implants last, depending on the material?
With proper care, both titanium and zirconia implants can last 10-30 years, depending on placement and oral hygiene.
What is the difference between zirconia and titanium?
Titanium implants typically consist of two pieces: the implant screw, replacing the tooth root, and an abutment connecting the screw with the crown (the visible ‘tooth’). This two-piece system allows deep placement into the bone, with each part inserted separately at different times. On the contrary, zirconia implants are primarily one-piece units, facilitating completion in a single session.
