Zirconia dental implants offer a strong, natural-looking and metal-free solution for replacing missing teeth. At Millennium Dental Associates in Scottsdale, we offer ceramic zirconia implants as part of our biological approach to restorative dentistry.
Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth and provide a stable foundation for a dental crown. Once restored, an implant can help you regain the appearance and function of a natural tooth while supporting the surrounding bone and tissues.
Why Choose Zirconia Dental Implants?
Zirconia implants are made from zirconium dioxide, a strong ceramic material used in modern dentistry. Unlike traditional titanium implants, zirconia dental implants are completely metal-free.
For patients looking for a ceramic dental implant or a metal-free dental implant, zirconia offers several advantages.
Natural Appearance
Zirconia is naturally white, helping the implant blend with the surrounding teeth and gums. This can be especially beneficial in visible areas of the smile where aesthetics are important.
Metal-Free Material
As a biological dental practice, we prioritize biocompatible materials whenever appropriate. Zirconia provides an alternative for patients who prefer to avoid placing metal in their mouths.
Strength and Stability
Zirconia is a strong material designed to withstand the normal forces of biting and chewing. Once placed, the implant integrates with the surrounding jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for the final restoration.
Support for Your Smile
Replacing a missing tooth with an implant can help restore normal chewing function, maintain proper bite alignment and support the bone in the area where the natural tooth was lost.
Zirconia Implants and Biological Dentistry
Our approach to dental implants goes beyond simply replacing a missing tooth.
At Millennium Dental Associates, treatment planning considers the materials used in the mouth, the health of the surrounding bone and gums, previous dental treatments and the individual needs of each patient.
For patients specifically interested in metal-free dentistry, zirconia implants can provide an option that aligns well with a biological approach to dental care.
The Zirconia Dental Implant Process
The process of having a zirconia dental implant placed starts with an initial examination to determine whether an implant is the right solution for your mouth.
Once it has been determined that an implant is needed, the next appointment is usually when the implant is placed. The implant is typically placed under the gums and remains there for approximately 3 to 6 months to allow for bone healing. During this waiting period, the jawbone bonds biologically to the implant through a process called osseointegration.
A temporary bridge or denture may be used to replace the missing tooth during this healing period. Patients are also generally asked to follow a soft diet for the first few weeks.
After 3 to 6 months, the gums are opened to uncover the implant and an abutment is attached. The abutment serves as the connection between the implant and the dental crown.
Approximately 2 to 6 weeks later, the final crown, or replacement tooth, is fitted into the mouth to complete the restoration.
The overall treatment time varies from patient to patient, but most people complete the zirconia dental implant process within approximately 6 to 9 months.Are You a Candidate for Zirconia Implants?
Zirconia implants can be an excellent option for many patients with one or more missing teeth, but every case is different.
Before recommending treatment, we evaluate factors including:
- The location of the missing tooth
- The amount and quality of available jawbone
- Gum and periodontal health
- The health of surrounding teeth
- Previous dental treatments or infections
- Your overall oral health and treatment goals
If a damaged or infected tooth first needs to be removed, we can also coordinate the tooth extraction, PRF treatment and future implant restoration within our Scottsdale practice.
How Much Do Zirconia Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of zirconia dental implants varies depending on the individual treatment plan.
Factors such as the number of implants needed, whether an extraction or bone graft is required, the condition of the jawbone and the type of final restoration can all affect the total cost.
The best way to determine the cost of your treatment is to schedule an evaluation so our team can assess your needs and provide a personalized treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are zirconia dental implants metal-free?
Yes. Zirconia is a ceramic material, making zirconia implants a metal-free alternative to traditional titanium dental implants.
Are zirconia implants the same as ceramic dental implants?
Zirconia implants are commonly referred to as ceramic dental implants because zirconia is a high-strength ceramic material.
How long does a zirconia implant take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the patient, implant location and condition of the surrounding bone. In many cases, several months of healing are required before the final restoration is completed.
Do you offer zirconia implants near Phoenix?
Yes. Millennium Dental Associates provides zirconia dental implants from our Scottsdale office and welcomes patients from Scottsdale, Phoenix and surrounding Arizona communities.
Schedule a Zirconia Implant Consultation in Scottsdale
If you are considering a zirconia dental implant in Scottsdale or want to learn more about metal-free options for replacing a missing tooth, schedule a consultation with Millennium Dental Associates.
Our team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options and determine whether a ceramic zirconia implant is right for you.
