ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS SAFE?
Since most dental implants are composed from titanium, many people assume that metal allergies disqualify them from the tooth replacement procedure. While it’s certainly a possibility, the fact that you have a metal allergy does not in itself determine your eligibility for dental implants.
CERAMIC DENTAL IMPLANTS – A METAL-FREE ALTERNATIVE
Since dental implants are most commonly composed of titanium, many people are concerned that metal allergies will not make them a good candidate for this tooth replacement procedure. However, you can talk to Dr. Boyajian to find out if you are a candidate for dental implants and whether you carry a risk of an allergic reaction or not. We offer zirconia ceramic dental implants as an alternative. Ceramic implants are completely metal-free and are boasting even better implant success rates.
Dr. Boyajian is a mercury-safe dental care provider. He stresses the importance and awareness of metal allergies and safety. Metal is an element, and being allergic to metal is not necessarily the same as having a metal allergy. Metallic are alloys that can be composed of two or more metals. The type of allergic reaction many people with metal allergies experience can vary dramatically, ranging from a mild rash to a complete multi-system shutdown known as anaphylactic shock that can lead to death.
Quality titanium dental implants are made out of commercially pure titanium, but there are many inexpensive implants that are made from a titanium alloy. That means it’s a mixture of different metals. Having different metals in your mouth can cause increased electroconductivity, which can have negative side effects. I would love the opportunity to talk about this in more detail during our consultation.
Titanium has been used because it is the strongest most biocompatible metal. It closely mimicks a natural tooth root. Even though titanium dental implants have a very high success rate, it does have its limits. A recent study conducted by Clinical Oral Implants Research revealed that metallic dental implants and related dental repairs could potentially trigger an adverse reaction in some people. In the study of 1,500 participants, researchers were able to detect titanium allergies in patients with dental implants. However, the estimated frequency was only 0.6 percent. The Clinical Oral Implants Research organization concluded that dental studies on allergic reactions to titanium implants and related prostheses are still very limited.
The dental implant procedure at Dental Wellness Arts continues to become more popular and more patients seek metal-free dental care options. It stands to reason that allergic reactions to implants will need to be studied in more detail.
The American Dental Association clearly states that there is always a chance of side effects when a foreign object enters the body. Implants and other dental materials used during oral procedures may cause a localized allergic reaction as a result. Please disclose all of your allergies and concerns when you meet with Dr. Boyajian about tooth replacement options.
METAL IMPLANT ALTERNATIVE
For those who are allergic to titanium or who prefer a more natural implant alternative, there is zirconia. Zirconia ceramic dental implants are now on the market in the United States. Ceramic implants are completely metal-free and function more naturally than any other material. Because it is easier for the facial and jaw bones to integrate with ceramic, these implants are stronger. Zirconia is longer-lasting, and they harbor less infectious bacteria. Zirconia ceramic is also more aesthetically pleasing.
There are no reports that indicate that anyone is allergic to zirconia and allergies are just the tip of the iceberg. Zirconia is more hydrophilic (which means water loving) and thus carries a lower surface energy. This translates to less biofilm and plaque accumulation. Which means less bone loss and gum recession.
Dr. Boyajian is proud to be one of the few dentists in the area who provides full ceramic tooth restorations from implant to crown without the use of metal or mercury. Want to learn more about metal-free dental care options and metal allergies? Call Dr. Boyajian for your consultation today!