Full-Ceramic Implants
High-quality ceramic implants from Charles A. Smith, DDS
Ceramic implants – the metal-free, biological alternative
For many decades, dentists in Heidelberg and across Germany have relied on titanium implants. Thanks to its durability and stability, titanium was long regarded as the best material for a dental implant. More recent studies, however, have shown that metal inside the body can also have undesirable effects.
That is why the zirconia ceramic implant is becoming increasingly important in modern, biologically compatible dentistry. Not least because a full-ceramic implant offers numerous additional advantages. You can discover exactly what those benefits are on these pages from Charles A. Smith, your innovative dentist in Heidelberg.
Immune reactions and biocompatibility
Full-ceramic implants made of zirconia are gentle on the surrounding tissue and fuse exceptionally well—and firmly—with the gums, jawbone and periosteum. Titanium shares this quality, yet there are recurring cases in which patients struggle with inflammation. Despite every precaution, minute metal particles can loosen, penetrate the bone or gum, and trigger inflammatory reactions.
The ceramic material performs far better here. It can even be used when titanium is no longer an option because of allergies—chiefly because zirconia’s inherent properties leave virtually no impact on the body’s metabolic processes.
Metal and radiation sensitivity
When several different metals coexist in the body, perfectly normal physical effects occur. In the mouth, for example, titanium interacts—via saliva—with amalgam, stainless steel or gold, no matter whether your dentist used them for bridges, inlays or crowns. The tiny electric current generated during this ion exchange can, in sensitive patients, produce a noticeable change in taste—especially when the salt content of food rises.
All metals, including titanium in the oral cavity, also have a tendency to behave like antennas. Electromagnetic fields have been shown to influence various biological processes in the body, such as sleep. This does not happen with full-ceramic implants. So if you consider radiation a potential environmental risk, that alone is a good reason to steer clear of titanium implants.
Longevity
Full-ceramic implants made of zirconia are distinguished by their exceptionally long service life. They easily withstand the heavy mechanical loads produced by chewing and are completely resistant to acids, bacteria and plaque.
Aesthetics
Another advantage of zirconia ceramic is its extremely natural appearance. This is mainly due to the similar light-transmission of full-ceramic implants. In addition, replacing the grey titanium core ensures an optimum look if the gum recedes slightly over the years—titanium implants often reveal faint grey lines where the crown meets the gum.
Our recommendation: full-ceramic implants
Today we use almost exclusively zirconia (full-ceramic) implants. The benefits clearly outweigh the slightly higher cost—especially when the implant is meant to grace the patient’s smile for many years to come.
- Excellent biocompatibility
- No immune reactions
- Insensitivity to radiation
- Creates an even, white, beautiful smile
- Natural tooth appearance
- Unmatched gum friendliness of ceramic
- Long service life
How much do full-ceramic implants cost?
Full-ceramic implants are somewhat more expensive than titanium implants. The small extra investment is worthwhile, however, because the material’s advantages clearly predominate.
After a free initial consultation we prepare an individual cost estimate. A meaningful quotation is only possible after a thorough examination and joint agreement on the treatment plan, including the exact materials and techniques desired. We will also clarify any reimbursement available from your statutory or private health-insurance provider. Additional amounts may be covered under an existing supplementary dental insurance policy.
Are you interested in full-ceramic dental implants and looking for a dentist who specialises in them? Dr Charles A. Smith and his colleagues have extensive experience in innovative dentistry. With a keen sense of aesthetics and state-of-the-art treatment methods they achieve impressive results. Get in touch now—we are here for you in Heidelberg and Böblingen.