Titanium Dental Implants
Since dental implants were first introduced in the 1960s, titanium has been the material traditionally used in the creation of their various components. Even today, titanium dental implants continue to be favored for their biocompatibility, strength, and the many benefits they offer in terms of maintenance and repair. If you are considering dental implants to replace one or more teeth, chances are that your dentist or oral surgeon will recommend that you opt for titanium implants. This article provides some information about what they are, how they work, and the multiple benefits they offer.
Components of Titanium Dental Implants
Titanium dental implants are typically comprised of three parts: a dental fixture, an abutment, and a prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture. The dental fixture is a small, thin post made of titanium that is introduced into the hard tissue of the jawbone itself, where it is then left to merge and become one with the bone. The top of the dental fixture is not visible to the eye, as it remains below the gumline.
The abutment is a small connecting piece that attaches to the implant fixture below the gumline and extends up just above the gumline; this is the piece to which the prosthetic can then be attached.
Because of the deep structural support of the implant fixture, which in many ways mimics the roots of one’s teeth, titanium dental implants are able to support a wide range of prostheses, from a single prosthetic crown to a partial bridge to a full arch of implant-supported dentures.
Benefits of Titanium Dental Implants
Titanium has been used in the creation of dental implants for so long because it offers an important combination of strength and biocompatibility. This means that titanium – typically used in an alloy, or blend with other metals – is strong enough to withstand the incredible pressure and power created by the jaw in chewing food and also very safe in terms of a low rate or allergies or sensitivities. While some people are indeed sensitive or allergic to titanium, it is rare. Generally, titanium is tolerated very well by the body and able to integrate safely with the jawbone and remain in place problem-free for a lifetime.
The three-part construction of titanium implants is also a decided benefit when it comes to future repairs or replacement of prostheses. Any repairs or replacements that are needed almost always relate to the prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture itself, and not to the structural components. With one-piece zirconium implants, this kind of repair requires removal of the entire implant, from top to bottom, to fix the problem. With titanium implants, your dentist can simply remove the prosthetic crown or other appliance, make the repairs in their lab, and put that piece back in place without having to disturb the implant fixture or abutment.
Furthermore, titanium implants typically have a lower price point than one-piece zirconium implants, and these costs can be further reduced by using stock (versus custom) pieces as is appropriate. All in all, titanium dental implants are an excellent, durable, affordable option.