Why ceramic dental implants are better than conventional bridges?

When it comes to options for tooth replacement patients are increasingly opting for dental implants over the usual dental prostheses such as dentures or conventionally placed bridges. Since implants sit securely in the jaw and look like natural teeth, they offer superior durability and outstanding aesthetics when compared to conventional bridges. However there is an increasing resistance to metals among people and in implant dentistry there is a shift away from metal or metallic based crowns, partials and implants.

There are four major categories of restorations available for tooth replacement:

Bonded dental bridge

Bonded dental bridges use the teeth adjacent to the empty space to help support the missing tooth by using a very thin piece of metal or tooth-colored material to overlay and bond to the back of the adjacent teeth. A tooth replacement or “dummy tooth” is set between these two bonded pieces in order to fill in the empty space. Failure rate is about 25 percent after just five years of use. Furthermore the gap widens because the bone recedes as a result of no longer having a tooth in place. This ultimately results in the weakening of the adjacent teeth which can become loose and eventually fall out.

Cantilevered dental bridge

A cantilevered restoration uses the closest tooth next to the empty space to support the missing tooth using the either the back of the neighboring tooth or a full crown to help support the missing tooth. Success rate is higher than with a bonded bridge depending on how much pressure the actual replacement endures due to grinding and normal wear. This method of tooth replacement has fallen out of favor because the supporting tooth gets torqued and fatigued and more often than not eventualy fractures.

Conventional dental bridge

Getting fitted for a dental bridge requires shaving down and modifying of the teeth on either side the space where the tooth or teeth are missing. This is done in order to fit a conventional bridge. This is a process that significantly weakens the ground teeth and sets them up for fracture and root canals in the future. Unfortunately conventional dental bridges predictably fail at a range from 20 percent over 3 years to 3 percent over 23 years.                                                                                                      With dental implants the dentist does not need to affect the health or longevity of neighboring teeth at all. Once placed, implants are firmly set into the bone making them more natural than dentures or conventional bridges, with none of the shifting that dentures normally display.

Some problems with conventional bridges

• They are bonded to the adjacent tooth with a glue-like substance, bridges more often become loose and fall out
• They cracks and fissure form over time, due to normal wear and tear and become fragile and prone to breakage
• Improper fit can lead to either tooth decay or irritation to the surrounding soft tissue around them.

Dental implant

A ceramic dental implant is created from a high performance material (zirconium oxide) that is inserted into the bone to act like a natural tooth root. Zirconium oxide also called zirconia is a crystal phase of zirconium and due to its nonmetallic construction the ceramic dental implant does not interfere with the body’s immune or meridian systems and therefore significantly reduces the potential for rejection. Furthermore ceramic implants do not interact with electromagnetic fields such as those emanating  from cell phones, cell phone towers and microwaves. Once inserted into the jaw, the implant integrates directly into the bone to give firm support to the artificial replacement that it is built to hold and should last the lifetime of a patient. Routine maintenance of a dental implant is exactly the same as a person would follow for normal teeth.

Healthy Patients Prefer Ceramic Implants

Patients who prefer dental implants say that they are more comfortable and provide a more secure fit than fixed bridges or removable dentures. However all implants are not equal and ceramic implants unlike metal implants are made in one piece from the root to the top just like a natural tooth. Therefore ceramic implants do not have joints and do not retain plaque and harbor billions of bacteria like two-piece metal implants. For those who no longer have any natural teeth, ceramic implants can be placed to support and retain dentures and eliminate the embarrassment and discomfort they can cause in social situations when they slip and click. Loose and ill-fitting dentures hamper the everyday pleasure of eating comfortably.

Reasons to consider a ceramic dental implant:

• preserves healthy natural tooth and bone structure
• looks and feel like natural teeth
• enhances a sense of self-confidence when eating, talking and smiling
• no gooey denture adhesives to deal with
• no embarrassingly loose dentures
• improves quality of speech
• no electrical or electromagnetic activity in your mouth

Anyone who is missing one or more of their teeth may be a candidate for implants. If more than a few of the teeth are missing, implants in supporting a crown or bridge can replace those teeth and function as normal teeth without concern for loss of bone and decay. If all or most of the teeth are missing, then implants may be placed to fix in place a full-mouth non-removable set of teeth.

No such problems with ceramic implants

Ceramic dental implants are recommended to patients because:

• Chewing is easy with excellent biting pressure provided by implant
• When done properly and dilligently cared for, dental Implants are reliable and provide long-standing service, for decades with few, if any complications
• Comfortable fit and lifetime durability because they are well secured and integrated with the bone and gums
• They remain clean because they do not accumulate plaque and bacteria
• Metal-free bioceramic
• They do not generate nor conduct electricity

Considering the overall advantages patients can expect to benefit from as a result of choosing a dental implant, they are better able to enjoy a healthier and greener lifestyle without the restrictions many denture and bridge wearers face. The more secure foundation offered by a dental implant, the better biting pressure becomes, making it possible to enjoy the foods that a patient probably would not be able to eat using a dental prosthetic. As a result improved chewing ability leads to better nutrition and improved overall health.

What’s the Best Way to Replace a Tooth?

While both dentures and implants will fill the gaps left by missing teeth, there are other important considerations to be aware of when making a choice for dental repairs:

• biocompatibility
• durability
• comfort
• cost

The expense associated with implants

The higher cost of dental implants can be the biggest obstacle for many patients to overcome when it comes to replacing one or more missing teeth. Despite their aesthetic and greater functional superiority the initial price of dental implants can cause many people to lean towards more conventional and less expensive options like bridges or dentures.

Success in the short term

Second to cost, another attractive aspect to dental bridges or dentures is the quick turnaround time since they can be ready and fitted at about 2 weeks, while dental implants take longer to become fully integrated into the mouth and jaw before they reach their peak performance level

However, there are a few additional costs associated with dentures and bridges which can include:

• restoring decayed teeth surrounding bridges
• treating gum disease caused by improperly fitted dentures and difficult to reach pockets created by bridges
• maintaining, repairing and replacing partial or fully removable dentures

The real cost of short sightedness

The actual physical structure of a jaw without teeth will initially shrink quite rapidly most particularly during the first six months — and more slowly over time for the remainder of the patient’s life. Consequently, when a denture is made to fit a person’s jaw it will need to be remade and refitted as the jawbone shrinks.

The teeth in a denture appliance eventually wear down and become less effective at chewing food. Worn denture teeth naturally cause a person to bite and chew with more force, pushing the denture into the jawbone, causing the bone to shrink at an even faster rate. Jawbone deterioration and loss is the major problem with removable dentures, a problem that also works to increase the speed of a person’s aging process. Grinding of the teeth will decrease the life of a denture also.

When a dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth, the supporting or adjacent teeth have to be ground down in order to make room for the support post of the bridge. Once the adjacent teeth have been altered in this way they become susceptible to damage and tooth decay. It is quite difficult for patients to properly clean the areas around and under dental bridges, which causes an accumulation of dental plaque and an increased susceptibility of tooth decay and gum disease. As in the case of dentures, the jawbone in the area where teeth are missing will shrink, weaken and deteriorate over time, which can cause the surrounding teeth to become loose, change position and even fracture in some cases. This mobility of the teeth will then create a situation where the structural integrity of the bridge is at risk.

The best long term solution

The average long term success rate of dental implant surgery in a healthy patient with good bone structure is over 95 percent. This figure can change to between 85 and 90 percent in patients who require bone grafting to increase density and to ensure that the implant will anchor well. For smokers, the failure rate of dental implants is about two times higher compared to non-smokers. Experienced implant dentists have success rate records as high as 99 percent for patients with healthy jawbone and gums. One of the most appealing aspects of a dental implant is that it works just like a natural tooth, without requiring any special care and without causing any damage to adjacent teeth. The only requirement to ensure the long life of a dental implant is for the patient to continue to maintain good dental health and proper daily oral hygiene – exactly as they would for natural teeth.

Lasting results

Once a dental implant has been placed and has properly integrated into the bone (a process called osseointegration) that implant can be expected to last for a lifetime, whereas dental bridges require replacement every ten years on average (due to bridge failure or adjacent teeth failure). Dentures also need to be replaced or modified about every five to ten years due to improper fit and bone loss. Therefore, although the initial expense for dentures and bridges may be relatively low, over time that cost will rise as repairs and replacements are needed, and as oral treatments are required due to gum disease and repair or loss of surrounding teeth. General health will also be affected as ill-fitting dentures do not allow for proper and efficient chewing.

Dental implants provide a much better aesthetic and functional results compared to alternative dental restorations. They help to ensure that a patient will be able to maintain their usual eating habits, keep a natural appearance and speak and chew without the embarrassment often caused by removable dentures.

Biocompatible Zirconium Oxide Ceramic Dental Implants

In the world of medicine, zirconium oxide is being used more consistently as the material of choice for bone related reconstruction, particularly hip prosthesis. This growing trend has led to substantial clinical reports which confirm the high biocompatibility and quality of zirconium oxide, making it an attractive component for use as dental implants. Not only does Zirconium Oxide overcome most of the pitfalls of other dental implant products (such as Titanium), but patients now have a choice of a material that is esthetic, strong, pure, corrosion-free, biocompatible and capable of being used for all dental implant and appliance applications.

Why biocompatibility is so important

The immune system will typically respond to non-compatible dental materials as if they were infections or ‘invaders’ by initiating a cascade of reactions geared toward eliminating that ‘invader’. A good analogy to this would be how your body reacts to a cold or flu by elevating levels of lymphocytes and activating the immune system, a reaction that eventually rids the body of the cold or flu. The difference is that with dental toxicity the source of the problem is permanently imbedded in the mouth, and therefore there is no way for the ‘infection’ to be eliminated by the immune system.

Using only quality biocompatible materials that are proven to have very low adverse allergic reactions and present no negative responses from the immune system is highly important for the health of our patients. It is also the reason that biological, natural and holistic dental practices strive to use only materials that are as neutral as possible. Zirconium is a very strong, inert material with very low allergic potential and therefore a higher biocompatibility than other materials used as dental implants.

What non-compatibility looks like

Considering that every person’s body and physiology is unique, some individuals will be more compatible than others with certain types of materials used in dental treatments and procedures. But ultimately, a biocompatible material will not cause:

• allergic reaction
• irritation
• inflammation
• foreign body response (rejection)
• cancer and other autoimmune disorders

An all-ceramic dental crown over an all-ceramic dental implant looks and functions very much like the missing tooth did. Ceramic implants provide metal-free tooth replacement solutions, eliminating concerns of allergies and biocompatibility issues thereby lessening concerns for damage to the immune system. Zirconium Oxide provides safe, holistic results that are comfortable, natural in appearance and biocompatible:

• Zirconia implant is the holistic dental implant for absolute metal-free dentistry
• The white color of Zirconium far surpasses the metallic appearance of Titanium
• Ceramic implants and crowns retain less plaque and calculus than Titanium and therefore promote healthier gums and mouth

Our objective is to make as many biocompatible options available to our patients as possible and it is important to us to achieve the highest level of biocompatibility, particularly in cases where patients have compromised immune systems. Whenever considering a dental restoration we strongly suggest that extensive biocompatibility and metal allergy testing be done beforehand to ensure the best results.

Cell Phones May Pose Increased Health Hazards to Patients with Metallic Dental Implants

All cell phones emit electromagnetic radiation called RF (radio frequency) and EMF (electromagnetic fields). Considering the close proximity of the cell phone to the head during use, there is clear potential for EMF emissions to be harmful to any of the 300 million healthy cell-phone users in the United States today. However, patients who have undergone metal implant surgery as well as those who may still have amalgam fillings and/or dental fixtures are potentially at a much higher risk of harm than someone who has no metallic structures in their mouth whatsoever.

The use of metallic implants and fillings in the mouth is known to have the ability to create a potentially dangerous situation called ‘galvanism’. The body’s normal electrical (bioenergetic) current fluctuates at about 450 millivolts. Galvanism occurs when saliva mixes with amalgam (or metal) fillings and/or implants resulting in a jump of the normal oral electric current up to 1,000 millivolts or higher. This jump in oral electric current is without factoring in the amplified EMF fields associated with cell phone use and other types of exposure to electromagnetic fields. This kind of highly charged electrical current can quite easily overpower the body’s normal electrical flows and potentially interfere with energy flow to the brain. It is also suspected of causing various irritations to the nervous system.

What kind of damage are we talking about?

Studies have shown that the radiation from cell phones to which the user is exposed may in fact be the culprit behind a wide range of health problems including headaches, pressure or tingling in the head, earaches, eye problems including distortion of vision, memory loss, fatigue, brain tumors, DNA alteration or damage and changes in the brains electrical activity. Some studies have shown rats to develop lymphoma from prolonged electromagnetic fields exposure. For patients who have metallic dental repairs, the risk is quantified significantly. Additional symptoms may include:

• Increased arthritis
• Skin problems
• Ear problems
• Risk to leukemia
• Childhood cancer
• Sleep problems
• Depression
• Difficulty in concentrating
• Mental conditions

For more than thirty years, research conducted at the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has focused on whether EMF associated with electricity can cause biologic changes or negatively affect health. Hundreds of studies have also been reviewed in health risk evaluations by the World Health Organization and other national and international organizations concerned with public health.

While some red flags have been raised over the years, what is being debated now at the national and international level is just how much radiation should be considered ‘unsafe’, and if there are any potential long-term side effects of continued cell-phone radiation exposure. Nobody knows with certainty what long-term health consequences EMF-induced biological effects may lead to – or how co-mingling metal implants and dental repairs with EMF radiation might affect the human body. The issue remains quite controversial. However, due to the growing depth of evidence pointing to various problematic interactions, concern is justified. Regardless, research has clearly shown that electromagnetic emissions from cell phones can cause significant biological effects and we know for a fact that metallic dental implants and fillings can create an electrical resonance of their own. When you combine these two disparate elements together, you have a potential recipe for disaster – one that can pose serious challenges to the long term health and wellness of anyone who has been fitted with metallic dental materials.

How metal implants may exaggerate harmful effects posed by cell phone use

Having dissimilar metals in the teeth (e.g.-amalgam; or gold and mercury, or stainless steel and mercury and/or titanium) causes a measurable galvanic action, or electrical currents, this is what is called “battery mouth”. These types of currents cause the amalgam levels (more often than not containing mercury vapor) to rise in surrounding tissues. The average mercury levels in gum tissue near amalgam fillings is about 200 ppm, and are the result of mercury flowing directly into the mucous membrane by way of galvanic currents. Dental amalgams also release significant amounts of silver, tin and copper which have well known toxic effects of their own. Even more alarming is the fact that amalgam containing zinc produces even higher galvanic currents.

Electrical currents can harm the immune system

Among other things, the electric currents and ionic flow between various dental alloys has been shown to cause irritation in the trigeminal nerve which is the main cranial nerve system; blocking the flow of major acupuncture meridians. This blockage can lead to greater overall dysfunction throughout the body and it can significantly challenge the immune system, which in turn can lead to chronic and debilitating health issues. It doesn’t take a much of an increase in the flow of energy to create harmful effects in the human body. Scientific studies associated with oral galvanism have determined that currents of just over 5 microamps is usually enough to cause significant health problems such as headaches, migraines, dizziness, nausea, etc. Removing the amalgam filling, metal fixture or dental repair essentially eliminated the problem in patients participating in this study.

Some studies have also found persons with chronic environmental exposure to electromagnetic fields including microwaves or MRIs to have higher levels of mercury exposure and excretion. And, interestingly enough, post MRI saliva mercury levels for a sample of patients reported on average 31 percent higher after MRI than before.

What the research reveals about metallic implants and cell phone use

Researchers in one study involved two basic types of implants: metallic pins and rings in the surface layers of the human body – positioned near the mobile phone. The goal in this case was to discover ‘the worst case scenario’ with respect to energy absorption. Researchers noted that “Based on the simulations of this study, the local absorption of EM field in a limited volume may be significantly (even by a factor of 700) enhanced by a conductive implant in the surface layer of a human body. The mobile phone and the metallic implant are strongly coupled, especially when the implant is close to a mobile phone, its length is in resonance with the field, and it is aligned with the antenna. This coupling can be either conductive, magnetic or both (Troulis et al 2003).”

Immediate symptoms of heightened danger

A few recommendations for reducing exposure to harmful EMF radiation when using a cell phone might include making only short and essential calls, and always use hands-free wired kits. Some studies suggest that positioning the phone’s antenna far away from the body during the calls may also be helpful. But, how can you tell if your cell phone is causing a problem? Several topical symptoms are immediately recognizable and they include:

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Warmth behind the ear
• Warmth on the ear
• Burning skin

The long term solution

Removing any amalgam fillings, metal fixtures or dental repairs will more than likely eliminate potential and confirmed health problems in patients. Overall, ceramic dental implants and repairs are the best alternative and they are highly resistant to corrosion and superior to other implant materials such as titanium and amalgams. They also have a higher level of human biocompatibility with the added benefit of a far superior aesthetic value for patients.

Sources:

JOÓ, ERVIN, ANDRÁS SZÁSZ, AND PÉTER SZENDRÖ. “Metal-Framed Spectacles and Implants and Specific Absorption Rate Among Adults and Children Using Mobile Phones at 900/1800/2100 MHz.” Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, 25: 103–112, 2006.

H Virtanen, J Huttunen, A Toropainen and R Lappalainen. “Interaction of mobile phones with superficial passive metallic implants.” Physics in Medicine and Biology 50 (2005) 2689–2700.

H Virtanen, J Keshvari and R Lappalainen. “The effect of authentic metallic implants on the SAR distribution of the head exposed to 900, 1800 and 2450 MHz dipole near field.” Physics in Medicine and Biology 52 (2007) 1221–1236.

Has the Dental Work in Your Mouth Turned You Into a Walking Antenna? http://www.drlinagarcia.com/view_articles.php,t=30

The prevention of occupational risks of electromagnetic fields. http://www.officiel-prevention.com/protections-collectives-organisation-ergonomie/rayonnements/detail_dossier_CHSCT.php?rub=38&ssrub=126&dossid=338

Some Facts about Metal-Free Dental Implants

Metal Free dental implants (ceramic dental implants) are preferred by holistic dentists and patients alike for both their functional and cosmetic attributes. The unique characteristics of the implant itself virtually eliminate issues of bone deterioration, soft tissue (gum) discoloration and help to improve a patient’s ability to chew food normally. Ceramic implants are biocompatible and easily incorporate into the surrounding bone, which results in permanent stability of teeth and a natural cosmetic look which patients prefer.

Metal free dental implants are metal-free

Sensitivities or allergies to metals commonly used in dentistry can be a problem for many people. In addition to sensitivity and allergy issues, holistic dentists have concerns about electrical effects of titanium and titanium alloy  implants with their abutments and crowns. More often than not, all the aforementioned parts are made of different metals and metal alloys. The pairing of dissimilar metals to replace missing teeth in the mouth create a “battery effect” or low electrical currents when combined with saliva. This phenomenon is called “oral galvanism” and if you have silver fillings they can participate in or intensify the process. Data collected by dentists and researchers shows that oral galvanism may affect health and most particularly the function of the nervous system.

Metal free dental implants are made up of the dioxide of zirconium. Zircon is a mineral and is the precursor of  zirconium dioxide which is found in nature. Through a complex process of chemical and structural changes, zircon is transformed into zirconium which is a metal close to titanium. Zirconium is further modified by a unique oxidation process into the dioxide of zirconium also called zirconium oxide (ZrO2) or zirconia. Zirconium dioxide is classified as a ceramic. Since this material is nonmetallic it does not conduct electricity or interfere with the body’s own energy systems (meridians), its use as a bioceramic implant helps eliminate concerns about health issues related to the long-term use of metals in the mouth. With a growing concern for the problems related to metallic substances in the mouth and their potential impact on the immune systems, ceramic dental implants virtually eliminate the negative effects found with titanium implants.

Metal free dental implants look and feel like real teeth

The white coloring of the material used in metal free dental implants has many advantages over the gray colored material used for titanium, creating much more natural looking results. With a ceramic dental implant it is possible for patients to enjoy the feel and functionality of firmly anchored teeth, without having to resort to the inconvenience and embarrassment of conventional dentures. In addition, a ceramic implant coupled with full contour ceramic crowns creates a beautiful restoration that is extremely stable and strong, and capable of withstanding the extreme environment of the mouth for quite literally — decades.

Patients who seek out non-metallic dental implants are often looking for a holistic approach to dentistry

People who prefer going to holistic dentists naturally favor mercury-free and metal-free dental procedures. Many don’t want metals and metal alloys in their mouth because of the potential for toxins, corrosion and the harmful effects they have on the immune system.

Metal free dental implants are very resistant to corrosion

The term “bioceramics” applies to a wide range of materials that, when compared to traditionally used metal implants, are actually harder and have higher temperature resistance, strength, lower density and excellent resistance to corrosion. These properties make bioceramics like zirconia invaluable for use in the oral environment where high temperature, corrosion, extreme pressure and constant abrasion are ever present. Also, ceramic dental implants have high resistance to fracture and heat, and have been proven to be as strong if not stronger than titanium.

Metal free dental implants offer superior stability and are highly biocompatible

Since the implant is anchored directly into the jaw it is naturally assimilated into the bone to give firm support to the artificial replacement that it is built to hold. Due to its nonmetallic construction the ceramic dental implant does not interfere with the body’s immune or meridian systems and therefore lessens the potential for rejection or other systemic or immunological health problems.

Metal free dental implants resist oral inflammation

Another added benefit of zirconium implants has to do with how well the gums react to the material following surgery, lessening incidents of gum disease, high inflammation and implant failure. Whereas titanium products tend to create lingering and unpleasant complications including gum disease and inflammation, which is likely caused by the free radicals present in the metallic materials.

Ceramics reduce incidents of plaque

And finally, the long-term health benefits presented by ceramic implants include its proven ability to resist plaque build-up, making it easier for patients to care for their implant teeth and sustain good oral hygiene. Plaque accumulation leads to higher bacterial counts in the mouth and ultimately to high levels of toxins and inflammation.

Whether you’re concerned about potential complications presented by having metals in the mouth or if you are simply looking for a more natural result, ceramic dental implants are a great alternative to titanium dental implants. Holistic dentists tend to offer ceramic dental implants to their patients precisely because they support a metal-free philosophy.

“Can I Be Allergic to Titanium Dental Implants?”

Discover the Links Between Metal Allergies and Dental Implants

By far, the most commonly implanted metals used in orthopedic and dental restoration devices are cobalt/chrome, stainless steel and titanium. Virtually all implants are alloys, meaning they are a combination of several different metals. The base metals (iron, nickel, lead, zinc and copper) are found in the highest quantities, but smaller amounts of other metals are also found in the implant. Considering that roughly ten to fifteen percent of the population experiences some form of allergic reaction to metal it is important to consider alternatives to metal implants.

Why All the Fuss about Metal Allergies?

An allergic reaction is a response of the body’s immune system when it detects an invasion of foreign substances, whether living or non-living. Allergic responses can range from a mild rash to death from a multi-system shutdown known as anaphylaxis. A person can become allergic to virtually anything, anywhere and anytime, including metals.

Environmental exposures to metals include; joint replacement, dental implants, dental restorations, jewelry, body piercings and even mobile phones. Traditionally nickel, cobalt and chromium have been the most prevalently reported contact allergens; however gold and palladium (primarily alloys that contain more than one metal) have drawn more attention recently. In the United States, studies show that the prevalence of nickel allergy is on the rise (likely due to the growing popularity of body piercings). Metal allergy is also being reported in association with certain device failures following surgical placement such as stents into coronary (heart) blood vessels, hip and knee prostheses, as well as dental and other implants.

Metal Dental Implants – originally the only choice

Metal dental implants were originally made out of commercially pure titanium or titanium alloy, providing the only option for anyone wishing to undergo implant tooth replacement. One aspect of titanium and titanium alloys is that they are generally considered ‘osteophilic’ (bone-friendly) and therefore considered to be biocompatible, providing a clear improvement over dentures and bridges. With a growing body of evidence to the contrary provided by researchers and patients alike, we now know that placing metallic dental implants and other restorative devices can potentially provoke allergic reactions and implant failure. One study involving 1,500 patients helped to drive the fact home when it demonstrated that titanium allergy could be clearly detected in dental implant patients. A notably higher risk of positive allergic reaction was found in patients whose implants failed for no other known reason other than that they had a higher incidence of allergic reaction.

Worst Case Scenario – Autoimmune Disorders

The most significant symptom which can cause the most severe problem is ‘chronic fatigue’. Muscle pain and chronic fatigue presenting without any known cause are the more serious symptoms associated with an allergy to metals. Unfortunately, since people don’t usually link overall fatigue with an immune disorder stemming from a metal implant they can suffer from this type of reaction for months or years before seeking help.

Autoimmune Disorders on the Rise

Between 15 and 25 million Americans are reportedly affected every year by one autoimmune disorder or another.  When you realize that an allergic reaction is actually the immune system turning on itself in a state of hyperactivity of the immune system then you can begin to see the correlation between autoimmune disorders and allergies, and doctors are now beginning to realize that allergies are quite often a precursor to autoimmune disease.

A growing list of health problems are suspected to be related to metal allergies potentially instrumental in the onslaught of autoimmune diseases such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Psoriasis, and Scleroderma, Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, type I diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and others.  With this alarming rise in autoimmune diseases and the suspicion of a correlation between metal allergies and a weakening immune system it only makes sense to take whatever steps we can to ensure that our patients are biocompatible with an implant before allowing any substance or material to be permanently affixed into the mouth.

The Better Alternative That Can Last a Lifetime

Today, ceramic dental implants are considered to be the best and safest alternative to metal implants. The advantage of these implants is that they are ceramic, they are made from zirconium oxide also called zirconia and thus there is no concern of corrosion, allergic reaction or electronic interference. Overall qualities of ceramic dental implants include;

Biocompatibility: the zirconium used in the manufacture of ceramic dental implants is an inert material with very low allergic potential.
Strength: The strength of the dental implant is exceptional compared to other metal implants.
Metal-free: no corrosion, no galvanism effect, no metallic taste, no electronic disturbances and no Gum irritation.                                             Hygienic: Oral plaque and tartar do not accumulate on the surface of zirconium imlpants, therefore they remain clean and allow for a healthy environment around the implant bone and soft tissue.

Allergy Testing – An Important Part of the Whole

Our goal is to treat the whole person through the use of safe, natural and painless methods. Our innovative approach to dental care focuses on the health and wellness of the mouth in relation to the whole body, including identifying and treating issues pertaining to metal allergies and autoimmune disorders. We only recommend products that we know to be safe and that will provide the most positive, lasting results for our patients, such as ceramic dental implants. To learn more call to schedule your free personal consultation today.

What are the Benefits of Ceramic Dental Implants?

Well over 100 million Americans suffer some form tooth loss, and today ceramic dental implants represent the most aesthetically pleasing option available for tooth replacement. Ceramic implants are comfortable for our patients, and due to their all-white color they present the most natural looking results. Dental implants are the better alternative to bridges, partials or dentures (find out why ceramic implants are better than bridges here) and most importantly; ceramic dental implants perform just like natural teeth.

When teeth are removed or lost due to trauma or infection the underlying bone is no longer used, resulting in a weakened jaw and bone loss. This makes it difficult to smile, chew and do other things most of us take for granted. Furthermore teeth next to the lost tooth/teeth shift and and the opposing one(s)  drift into the spaces left by missing teeth. These ultimately lead to malocclusion, jaw collapse, jaw muscle pain and even chronic headaches. Dental implants provide the same function as the natural tooth root which they replace, including stimulating the bone in the most natural way possible and maintaining adjacent and opposing teeth in their place. Ceramic dental implants prevent bone deterioration and improve a patient’s ability to chew food normally.

Dental implants can last a lifetime and are placed directly into the bone where the teeth are missing. They do not adversely affect the adjacent healthy teeth as do traditional bridges. Implants bond to the jawbone and become part of it – making a connection as strong as a natural tooth root.

Some of the benefits of ceramic dental implants:

• Improve one’s ability to bite and chew
• Function exactly like natural teeth
• Do not interfere with adjacent teeth
• Provide a more youthful appearance to the face and jaw line
• Eliminate bone deterioration that can occur with tooth loss
• Do not cause unsightly metal coloring around the gums
• Are metal free and do not corrode or breakdown in the oral environment
• Easy to keep clean because they do not attract nor accumulate bacteria-loving plaque
• Do not conduct electricity or interfere with the body’s meridian energy pathways
• Provides stability without the need for messy adhesives

Whether you’re concerned about metals in the mouth or prefer to have natural looking teeth, ceramic dental implants provide the best alternative to titanium dental implants.

For more information or a free consultation, please give us a call today: 301-880-1410

On Friday May 18 and Saturday May 19, 2012 Dr. Noumbissi was one of two lecturers/instructors at two zirconia implantology certification courses in San Francisco and Seattle respectively. Both courses were under the patronage of the the American Institute of Implant Dentistry(A.I.I.D) and supported by Z-systems USA.

A total of sixteen dentists participated and were certified in treatment planning and placement of zirconia dental implants.  The physical, aesthetic and biologic properties of zirconia as a dental material were presented and discussed. Among many other important topics presented was the superior stability of zirconia implants in the oral environment and their ability to resist corrosion.Advanced treatment planning methods utilizing 3D dental imaging and interactive treatment planning software were presented with particular emphasis on the placement of Zirconia/ceramic dental implants.

Clinical cases were presented and discussed in a variety of clinical scenarios ranging from the replacement of single teeth to multiple teeth and full arch reconstruction.   Each session ended with two hours of hands-on training with the  placement of actual zirconia implants on artificial jaws.

Dr. Noumbissi with Seattle Course Attendees

Live Placement of a Z-Systems Dental Implant

Biocompatible Implants Improve Your Smile

Dental implants are best described as biocompatible anchors that permanently support crowns or dentures. Dental implants are preferred over traditional bridges because they do not require altering adjacent teeth. Once in place, they are quite durable and can be cleaned and cared for just like your natural teeth.

Dental implants are generally recommended to patients as a way to replace teeth which have been removed for reasons of disease or trauma. Rather than wearing removable dentures, permanent implants are fitted into the jaw, a procedure that is particularly effective for those patients who have no serious health issues that might prevent healing, and as long as they have good bone structure. A dental implant is essentially an artificially placed substitute for the natural root of the tooth.

Until recently, practically all dental implants have been of metallic construction, made of commercially pure titanium or a titanium alloy. Today, natural dentists are much happier with the results presented by the use of implants made from ceramics.

Titanium on Left, Zirconium on Right: Notice the Gray Line on the Gums with the Titanium Implant

Choosing Dental Implants Over Bridges

Dental implants are different from dentures or bridges as they set into the mouth very much like natural teeth and are not removed on a daily basis. Because implants closely resemble real teeth, they don’t generally cause damage to gums and the underlying bone structure as dentures are known to cause.

Getting fitted for a denture bridge requires the modification of the teeth around the bridge which significantly weakens those teeth. In other words, the structure of the existing teeth has to be changed to support the false bridge. Once established, dental implants are more firmly situated in the mouth than dentures or bridges, with none of the shifting that dentures normally display.

Anyone who is missing one or more of their teeth may be a candidate for implants. If more than a few of the teeth are missing, implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth and function as normal teeth without concern for loss of bone and decay. If all or most of your teeth are missing, then implants may be placed to fix in place a full-mouth denture.

What are Ceramics?

White Zirconium Dental Implant

An all-ceramic dental crown over an all-ceramic dental implant looks and functions very much like the missing tooth did. Ceramic implants provide metal-free restoration, eliminating concerns of allergies and biocompatibility issues thereby lessening concerns for damage to the immune system. The term ‘ceramics’ applies to a wide range of materials that, when compared to traditionally used metal implants, are harder and have higher temperature resistance, strength, lower density and excellent resistance to corrosion. These properties make ceramics invaluable for use in the oral environment where high temperature, corrosion and constant abrasion is ever present. Owing to its biocompatibility, low density and ability to withstand abuse, ceramics are far superior to metal for implantation in the human body.

The zirconium implant is of the highest quality material and the best choice for dental implantation, and the preference of holistic dentists everywhere. These qualities include:

Biocompatibility: zirconium is an inert material with very low allergic potential

Strength: The strength of the zirconia dental implant is exceptional compared to other metal implants

Metal-free: no corrosion, no galvanism effect, no metallic taste, no electronic disturbances

Studies have shown that ceramic dental implants are excellent for making it possible for the bone to grow right up to the implant surface allowing the implant to be held securely in place by the bone. This process typically takes four to six months to completely heal before the restoration can be finished.

How It Works

Before Ceramic Implant is Placed

After Surgery but Before the Crown is Placed

30 Days Post Surgery

The implant procedure requires the artificial ceramic root to be fitted directly into the jaw to replace the natural root. The placement of a single implant can take as little as 30 minutes while several hours may be necessary for other surgeries, depending on the extent of restoration required.

The white color of Zirconia is preferred to the metallic appearance of titanium implants which would leave an unsightly dark line around the gums, while ceramics look more natural. Ceramic implants and crowns also retain less plaque and calculus than metal implants, therefore promoting healthier gums.

The End Results

Healthy and beautiful teeth contribute significantly to the overall quality of life. Ceramic dental implants are recommended to patients because:

* A healthy attractive smile improves self-esteem

* Chewing is easy with excellent biting pressure provided by implant

* Dental Implants have a good reputation for providing reliable and long-standing service, providing 20 years or more with few, if any complications

* Comfort, fit and durability because they are well secured and integrated with the bone and gums

Caring for Your Implant

Caring for your teeth following an implant is very much like taking care of your natural teeth. Correct oral care must be followed such as brushing and flossing after every meal, or at least twice a day. Implants and tooth replacement is an investment in your ongoing health and well-being and ceramic dental implants will give you many years of use if cared for properly.

As natural dentists, our goal is to provide absolute metal-free restorative dentistry which not only includes zirconia implants but crowns and bridges, pressed all-ceramic crowns, porcelain veneers as well as invisible tooth-colored fillings. Ceramic options are proven more holistic, aesthetic and hygienic than their metal counterparts.