Like other major dental work, dental implants are an investment in the health of your mouth and your smile. They are used for critical problems, like missing teeth.
Ceramic dental implants, also known as zirconia implants, often cost more than titanium implants—typically $500 to $1,000 more—because the materials used are more expensive. If you are on a tight budget, your instinct may be to choose titanium implants.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the implants that offer the most value are the ones that you will use for the longest time.
Not too long ago, titanium implants were the most popular choice in many practices. But today, more patients have health concerns about putting metal implants in their mouths and have opted for ceramic dental implants instead.
This is because titanium implants sometimes cause inflammation in the surrounding tissues that leads to problems in the jawbone. The causes are a release of titanium particles into the tissue and in some cases, bacteria around the dental implants. If you have a problem like this, changing to ceramic dental implants later will add the total cost of treating your dental problem.
Often, it is more cost-effective to opt for ceramic dental implants in the first place. Ceramic dental implants are excellent for people who are sensitive to metals and other materials used in dental implants. They are durable and biocompatible, preventing the infection of gum tissues around the implant site. Patients with metal allergies may also prefer ceramic dental implants over traditional implants because they are hypoallergenic. Because they are completely white, they do not show through the gum tissue, making them a great option for people with sensitive teeth or autoimmune diseases. And they last a lifetime.
Many people ask themselves if they can afford ceramic dental implants. An equally important question to ask: Can you afford not to get ceramic dental implants? It is important to discuss that question with your dentist as you make your decision.
