Zirconia / Ceramic Implants
“While titanium has been the most commonly used material for dental implants due to its low allergy risk, recent scientific research has revealed potential concerns. These studies suggest that titanium may corrode over time, leading to the spread of fragments into surrounding tissues and even distant body areas. This corrosion can trigger inflammatory responses, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition to such reactions.”
The arrows in the picture point to titanium particles detected in the tissue around the implant. These particles are recognised as “foreign” by the body and are engulfed by macrophages, which can trigger inflammatory reactions.
(source article: https://europepmc.org/article/med/29440784)
Why Ceramic Implants?
Bacterial plaque involvement in zirconia implants is extremely low. In this way, it reduces the risk of developing inflammation in the tissue around the implant.
The gingiva naturally tends to wrap around zirconia implants, and gingival insertion procedures, which may be required in titanium implants, are generally not required in zirconia implants.
This behaviour of the gums is also a sign of the compatibility of the implant with body tissues.
When placed, it can be abraded as if it is your own tooth and taking measurements can be done. There is no need for complicated gauging and laboratory steps in titanium.
Zirconia is extremely strong and can withstand twice the maximum stress and strain loads that pure titanium and titanium alloys can withstand.
It is aesthetically more advantageous than titanium, as it is completely white.
The success rate of zirconia implants after 5 years is over 95%.
Zirconia does not transmit electric current.
On the left of the photo you can see the teeth made using titanium and zirconia implants (ceramic implant) on the right. It is possible to observe the difference in the structure and color of the gum.
”Zirconia / ceramic implants combined with the general treatment principles of biological dentists in search of biocompatible materials, created their own application protocol. Before and after implant application, a preparation and maintenance phase that will ensure the good functioning of bone metabolism, and practices that will positively guide bone and soft tissue healing during the application, without using foreign grafting materials, are taken care of. In short, zirconia implant application is much more than using an alternative material.
Ceramic Implant Stages
Examination of 3D Tomography and Other Images
We kindly ask you to share with us your recent tomography(CBCT), panoramic X-rays, and intraoral photos taken with your phone. We ask you to fill in the “Medical History Form” that we will share with you and indicate the treatments you request.
Preparation of Preliminary Treatment Plan
The medical data you have sent is examined in detail by our dentists. Your preliminary treatment plan is prepared by examining the suitability of your bone structure for implant operations, whether graft, sinus lifting or a different treatment will be required, whether the implants can be placed immediately after the extraction or after a 2-month healing process if implants are desired after extraction, and taking other factors into consideration. At this stage, you will be informed about how long it will take to complete your treatment and the approximate total cost
Physical Examination
Before the implant operation, we perform a physical examination of our patients and make final evaluations based on their planning and your treatment expectations.
If requested, we also refer our patients to our medical doctor we work with for IV vitamin C or IV Ozone supplements to strengthen the immune system.
Operation Day
According to the plans we made beforehand, we first take blood on the day of the operation and prepare the PRF that we will use during the operation. We perform our implant placement operations with minimally invasive methods. We utilize dental ozone during surgical procedures to ensure antisepsis of the operation area
A few days after the operation we check that everything is fine
Permanent Ceramic Coating Construction
For the placement of permanent ceramic veneers, we need two or three more sessions 4 to 6 months after the implant placement (osteointegration period). During the first session, we prepare the gums and take your digital impression and send it to the laboratory. Within 5-7 days, your crown is prepared and glued in the next session. Another appointment may need to be made for the next day if an adjustment is required.
Frequently asked questions
Does ceramic implant break?
There are major differences in the material used and the manufacturing process compared to titanium implants. Zirkolith®, the patented manufacturing process used in the Swiss Z-Sytems Ceramic implants we use, shows higher fracture resistance than titanium implants. A good occlusion design is crucial for long-term success and fracture resistance.
Why are ceramic implants expensive?
Ceramic implants are made of biocompatible ceramics such as zirconium oxide, which is a more expensive material than metal implants such as titanium. However, zirconium (ceramic) implants must be manufactured with high precision. This manufacturing process is complex and requires specialized equipment. In addition, the manufacturing process is difficult as there is a risk of cracking or fracture when machining the ceramic material.
How long does ceramic implants last?
Ceramic implants can generally be used in the oral environment for 15-20 years like titanium implants. Since they are not corroded by oral secretions like titanium implants, they retain their structure for a long time. Further research is needed to confirm the long-term durability and performance of zirconium implants.
How much does a ceramic implant cost?
Since 2019, when we opened our clinic, we have been using only Swiss Z-Systems branded ceramic implants. The cost of zirconium (ceramic) implants varies between 1500-2000 Euros.
Do ceramic implants contain metal?
No, ceramic implants do not contain metal. Zirconium implants Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2) is an inorganic material belonging to the group of “oxide” ceramics.
