Made to Last: How Dental Implant Materials Affect Longevity

Dental implants are made to last. As you might expect from a high-tech tooth replacement, the materials used for this type of restoration are carefully considered. Your dentist in San Antonio will only use the best of the best!

That said, you still have a couple of different material options for your dental implants, and they can each affect your restoration’s longevity in different ways. Keep reading to see which materials you might prefer!

The Implant Post

The implant post is the part that will be surgically anchored to your jawbone. Since it will be hidden below your gumline, you won’t have to worry about the aesthetics of the material as much as its strength and durability. Historically, dental implant posts have been made from titanium, but zirconia is quickly becoming popular as well. Here’s how they compare:

• Titanium. Titanium posts have a reliable track record for longevity and are known to last for decades.
• Zirconia. As a newer option, there’s not much data about the longevity of zirconia posts. However, zirconia is a type of ceramic, not a metal, which some patients find appealing.

Both of these materials are biocompatible, so either way, you won’t have to worry about implant rejection!

Abutment Materials

Your abutment will be a small, barely noticeable piece designed to connect your implant posts to the prosthetic. If you’re replacing a tooth near the front of your smile, you may be more inclined to consider the aesthetics of your abutment material. Once again, your options will be titanium and zirconia.

• Titanium. Titanium abutments are just as durable as titanium implant posts and will keep your prosthetic and post firmly connected.
• Zirconia. As a type of ceramic, zirconia looks slightly more tooth-like than titanium, making it a popular abutment material choice.

Your Prosthetic Options

In other words, your customized bridge, denture, or crown. Most patients prefer to have a tooth-colored prosthetic that creates a seamless smile, and since this part will rest above your gumline, it’s often better to choose a material that will be gentler on any remaining natural teeth. Such as:

• Porcelain. Porcelain is also a type of ceramic and is known for its incredibly life-like sheen and texture. It’s generally stain-resistant and slow to wear.
• Acrylic. Less durable than porcelain, but lightweight and often more affordable.

Do you know which materials you’ll choose for your dental implant restoration? If not, that’s okay! You and your dentist will have the chance to talk about your options in more depth during your consultation. Remember to voice any questions and concerns, and happy treatment planning!

About the Practice

Dr. Aiyana Anderson and Dr. Michele Moreno are your passionate and friendly dentists in San Antonio. Your care experience at Alamo Springs Dental is a priority for them. Rather than rush you through your appointments, Dr. Anderson and Dr. Moreno will make sure you’re comfortable and feel confident about your treatment plan. To customize your dental implant restoration today, contact their office at 210-463-9339