Ceramic implants may be the next big thing

I remember my grandfather being one of my favorite people, as a young girl. He was a quiet, kind man. I also remember my amusement every time he grabbed his upper false teeth with his tongue and push them partially out, then pull them back in again. I always laughed, but subconsciously decided then that I’d never want false teeth. But life often gets the best of us, and many of us find ourselves seeking solutions for lost teeth.

Thankfully, nowadays, more options are at our service. One option that continues to gain popularity from the general public, if not yet with dental insurance companies, is dental implants.

What exactly is a dental implant? It is a fixed replacement procedure to embed an artificial, screw-shaped tooth ‘root’ in the jaw. A crown is attached to this foundation to create a realistic, fully functional tooth. There are several styles of implants, and the dentist needs to check bone and gums’ health before declaring one’s suitability for the procedure.

The whole idea is not as new to dentistry as one may assume. But only in the last thirty years or so, have the technology and optimal materials made the procedure viable. While the traditionally most successful and still most common material for implants is titanium, a new substance, zirconium oxide ceramic, is also gaining attention.

Choosing a ceramic implant has several advantages. A single-piece design means easy maintenance, with no prosthetics to potentially trap bacteria. A ceramic implant is considered hypoallergenic with high biocompatibility. They are 100% white, contain no metal, and are resistant to cracks.

In some ways, a dental implant can be much more convenient than regular crowns, which often require numerous doctor visits before the procedure can be completed. A ceramic implant can be performed on the same appointment as a tooth extraction. A follow-up is required to ensure the implant was successful and the gums are healthy and properly healed. Since implants are attached to the jawbone, they allow for more natural function and better aesthetics. In fact, they actually stimulate and preserve the natural bone.

For these reasons, ceramic implants are considered to be a more holistic solution for tooth loss. The more natural, fixed dental solution may very well be worth the investment. Though most dental insurance providers do not currently support implants, financial arrangements can be secured ahead of time. If your family dentist does not perform the procedure, they can usually refer you to a reputable clinic specializing in this type of dentistry.

To book an appointment, call Roots on Whyte Dental at 780-438-6863 or contact us here.