Dr. Noumbissi was invited to present the first ever presentation in ceramic implantology at the scientific session of the 104th Meeting of the Philippine Dental Association in Manila. This one of a kind and well attended event took place at the SMX convention center in Pasay City.
On April 18 and 19 2013, The holistic Dental Association (HDA) will be hosting its 36th annual conference in Herndon Virginia in the United States. Since its foundation in 1978, the HDA ‘s mission has been to promote an awareness of dental care as it relates to the entire person. The HDA also brings together dentists who have a common interest in treatment modalities that are not included in dental school curriculum. Furthermore in recent years more and more people have heighten their awareness in their own health and regard good health to be more than just the absence of disease. Dr. Noumbissi is a member of the Holistic Dental Association and limits his dental implantology practice to metal-free implant dentistry. Over the last thirty years the only and most popular method of teeth replacement has been titanium metal dental implants and research is increasingly proving that implantation of metals can lead to systemic health problems in areas of the body remote from the oral cavity. Dr. Noumbissi will be one of the podium speakers at this annual conference and will be presenting clinical evidence of the safety and health benefits of metal-free dental implants.The topic to be covered will be “Zirconia a Viable and Sometimes Necessary Alternative for Teeth Replacement”.
For more information on this conference please follow: http://www.holisticdental.org/Default.aspx?pageId=1460693
The first of its kind, the Metal-free Implant Dentistry Summit will be held in Miami Florida at the Hilton Bentley in South Beach. Dr. Noumbissi will be one of the main podium speakers at this conference. The summit will be held December 7 and 8, 2012, zirconia as an implant material will be presented in multiple aspects of implant dentistry including prosthetic and surgical. Aesthetic, single and multiple top-to-bottom metal-free teeth replacement cases will be presented and discussed. Dr Noumbissi will present his ongoing clinical evaluation of zirconia implants for full mouth reconstruction.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
Dr. Noumbissi was invited to speak at the 28th annual meeting of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology in Minneapolis. The topics presented were Zirconia as a dental implant material. Zirconia is the ceramic state of the metal zirconium which has been used for over twenty years in orthopedics. For the last decade it has also been used as a metal-free dental implant material. Unfortunately there is a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation both among dentists and the public as to the viability and predictability of zirconia as an oral and maxillofacial implantable material. The second presentation was focused on the clinical applications of zirconia dental implants, cases presented ranged from single tooth replacement to full arches metal-free rehabilitation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
With the support of Wichita State University AEGD Program, its Director Dr. Dexter Woods and Mr. James Francis President of Z-systems USA, Dr. Noumbissi just completed the first ever metal-free dental implantology course in Kansas at Wichita State University. Eight residents, four faculty members and five private practice dentists attended. The two-day program started by introducing the participants to zirconium dioxide (zirconia) as a dental implant material. The properties, characteristics and benefits of zirconium which is a bioceramic were presented and discussed. Through multiple real case scenario presentations and discussions the participants were allowed to learn and practice how to identify, select and treatment plan patients who need to have their teeth replaced with ceramic dental implants. On the second day we had a live surgery demonstration on a patient which was performed by Dr. Noumbissi. During the live demonstration most of the concepts, techniques and considerations discussed prior were demonstrated in real time.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The science of ceramic, metal-free dental implants provides a comfortable and natural alternative to bridges for patients who have suffered tooth loss. Metal-free dental implants are made of the ceramic component of zirconium also called zirconium oxide or zirconia. Due to zirconia’s physical and optical properties, metal-free implants are all-white in color , highly attractive in appearance, and look and feel like natural teeth so much so that you might forget that you ever lost a tooth (for more information about the cosmetics of metal-free dental implants, please read The Cosmetics of Ceramic Dental Implants).
A conventional dental bridge can be made with a metal framework or entirely from porcelain or zirconia. However whether its metal based or ceramic, it is created by using adjacent teeth to support a pontic, or fake tooth. In this way, otherwise healthy teeth are often ground down and crowned (or “capped”) to facilitate a bridge to span the space where teeth are missing. So what is the difference between a bridge and a dental implant? A dental implant is applied directly into the jawbone mimicking the tooth’s natural structure without touching the surrounding teeth. An even better method of tooth replacement is by using zirconia implants therefore taking advantage of its metal-free and extremely stable physical properties. Zirconia dental implants do not corrode or breakdown when in contact with oral fluids, furthermore little to no plaque (tartar) accumulate on their surface.
Most dental bridges last from 5-10 years before needing to be replaced. A bridge relies on the adjacent teeth and on the bridge’s structure for support. Surrounding teeth lose their strength due to being ground down to support a bridge and are susceptible to decay and even fracture due to loss of enamel and tooth structure in the process.
Metal-free 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, do not corrode or conduct low level electrical currents in the oral cavity. These low level electrical currents also called galvanic currents will lead to events ranging from weakening of conventional metal implants to the death of bone cells around implants; this eventually leads to implant loosening and failure. Zirconia implants bond to the jaw bone and become part of it without affecting it – making a connection often stronger than a natural tooth root.
Dental implants act as substitute tooth roots, providing the same function as natural tooth roots including stimulating the bone in the most natural way possible. When teeth are removed or lost due to trauma or infection the underlying bone is no longer used, frequently 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.
When teeth are lost or extracted, the bone that previously supported those teeth no longer serves a purpose and begins to deteriorate, or ‘resorb’. When a bridge is used to connect two teeth, normal pressure is not applied on the jawbone in such a way that the bone is stimulated as it would be in a healthy mouth, leading to bone loss in the area where the tooth was lost. Eventually the bone loss spreads to the supporting teeth of the bridge which over time gets loose, fractures and/or fails.
Just like metal (titanium) implants, replacing teeth with metal-free dental implants involve placing an artificial root made of zirconia back into areas where there are no teeth. This results in renewed stimulation of the bone in the jaw preventing long term bone loss, thereby preserving and strengthening the structure of the jaw.
Not only do dental implants sit securely in the jaw and look like natural teeth, they also offer superior durability and outstanding aesthetics. Implants of a variety of materials have been used successfully for about 40 years and the latest generation of ceramic implant systems made of zirconium oxide (zirconia) take the science of dental implants to the next level.
Caring for dental implants is very much like caring for natural teeth by following standard oral health care measure such as brushing and flossing.
Flossing bridges is not an easy task and requires time, patience and consistency making it difficult to follow routine everyday oral hygiene which can leave the underlying natural tooth structure at risk of decay and gum disease. Almost invariably over time decay occurs under supporting crowns of the bridge leading to the need for root canal treatment or tooth loss altogether.
Individual dental implants allow easier access between teeth making it possible for patients to resume normal dental care. Furthermore zirconia dental do not collect plaque around them allowing for healthier gums and underlying bone.
The bottom line for most people who have experienced tooth loss is that dental implants are a better solution. Implants are the closest thing possible to natural teeth, are fixed in place and offer a healthy alternative for oral and bone health, plus they support general well-being. Patients, who have metal-free dental implants a less likely todevelop metal sensitivity over time, remark that they look better, feel better and are more confident.