Zirconia dental implants are a tooth replacement option made from zirconium dioxide, which is also commonly referred to as zirconia. These implants are inserted into the jawbone and are an ideal alternative to traditional Titanium implants.
As people get older, the focus on dental health starts to get a little more important. When people start to lose teeth, it can have an impact on not only self-esteem but overall quality of life. While traditional titanium or metal implants have long been the go-to solution, advancements in dental technology have come a long way. Zirconia dental implants have grown in popularity, and people are beginning to see their wide range of benefits.
In this blog post, we’ll look closer at zirconia dental implants, if they’re covered by insurance and some of their advantages.
How Can Patients Benefit From Zirconia Dental Implants?
Many benefits of zirconia dental implants make them an attractive tooth replacement option for many people.
Aesthetics: Zirconia dental implants have an extremely natural appearance and resemble normal teeth’ color and translucency. It’s difficult to tell the difference between these implants and the surrounding regular teeth, making them an ideal option for older adults looking to boost their smile.
Biocompatibility: Because zirconia is a biocompatible material, the human body doesn’t have many issues tolerating it. It also doesn’t cause allergic reactions or adverse tissue responses. Users find that their gums won’t get irritated or inflamed, and this can be a breath of fresh air for those seeking long-term solutions for their oral health.
Reduced plaque accumulation: Zirconia implants are much smoother than metal ones, meaning plaque has a more difficult time accumulating on them. Their smooth surface lowers bacterial adhesion, leading to a reduced risk of gum disease and other complications.
Preservation of natural tooth structure: Zirconia implants are standalone replacements for missing teeth, so they don’t require alteration or preparation of adjacent teeth. This ensures the integrity of healthy teeth and leads to better dental health.
Scenarios Where Zirconia Implants Work Well
Zirconia Crowns
In patients with decayed or compromised teeth, zirconia crowns can be used in combination with zirconia implants to rehabilitate the mouth completely. The crowns are customized to perfectly match the color and shape of the patient’s teeth so that their smile will appear as natural as regular teeth.
Does Insurance cover Zirconia Dental Implants?
Coverage of zirconia dental implants by insurance in Lubbock varies depending on your insurance provider and policy.
If your dental implants are purely for cosmetic reasons, insurance is unlikely to cover. If the dental implants fall under specific circumstances, then there is a better chance of receiving coverage. Some circumstances that dental insurance plans may offer coverage include accidental tooth loss and medical necessity, such as an accident.
How Much Do Zirconia Dental Implants Cost?
Zirconia dental implants can range in price depending on where you go, but you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 per tooth. The overall cost depends on how many implants you need, the complexity of the case, and the particular fees set out by the dentist. Costs are typically broken down by the implant fixture, abutment, and prosthetic tooth or crown.
Inquire About Zirconia Implants Today
If you have any questions about Titanium vs zirconia dental implants, reach out to us.
Trust our family focused practice to deliver compassionate care. Don’t wait any longer—contact Hancock & Johnston Dentistry to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards restoring your smile with zirconia dental implants.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between zirconia and titanium dental implants?
A: The biggest difference between zirconia and titanium dental implants is their material composition. While titanium implants have been used for decades, zirconia implants are renowned for their natural tooth-like appearance and biocompatibility.
Q: Are there any zirconia dental implant problems?
A: Even though there are a number of benefits to zirconia dental implants, there are also a couple of things to consider. Zirconia may fracture a little easier compared to titanium, but even despite this risk, proper treatment planning and placement can reduce the risks.
