Ceramic implants: metal-free dental implants made of zirconia

Ceramic implants are dental implants made of zirconia, a very strong, tooth-coloured ceramic. They are metal-free and can be an alternative to titanium implants, for example if you specifically want a metal-free solution or have thin gums in the visible front area. However, they are not suitable for every situation and have been clinically tested for a shorter time than titanium.

At our dental practice in Küsnacht, we offer both titanium and ceramic implants. Before the procedure, we take time to discuss which material suits you. You can find an overview of all types of implant, requirements and alternatives on our page Dental implants in Küsnacht.

What is a ceramic implant?

Like any dental implant, a ceramic implant is an artificial tooth root that heals into the jawbone and then supports a crown or bridge. In everyday language, they are also called zirconium or zircon implants. What is always meant is zirconia (zirconium dioxide), a high-performance ceramic that is also used for crowns and bridges.

Ceramic implants are often one-piece: the implant body and the abutment on which the crown will later sit are made from a single piece. However, there are also two-piece systems in which the abutment is attached separately, as is usual with titanium implants. Which option is suitable depends on the position of the gap and the amount of bone available.

Ceramic or titanium: the differences

Titanium has been the proven standard in implantology for decades. It is generally very well tolerated by the body; genuine titanium allergies are rare. Titanium implants are usually two-piece, which offers many options for the subsequent restoration. Ceramic implants offer advantages above all in terms of appearance and material:

• Metal-free: for people who deliberately want to avoid metal in their mouth
• Tooth-coloured: with thin gums, no grey margin shows through, which can be an advantage in the front area
• Well tolerated: zirconia is considered a biocompatible material

These are offset by some limitations:

• Less experience: ceramic implants have been clinically tested for a shorter time than titanium implants
• Not for every situation: depending on the amount of bone available and the type of restoration, titanium is the more suitable choice
• Protection during healing: With one-piece implants, the abutment already protrudes into the mouth during healing and must be protected from load

In both cases, the costs depend on your situation, for example on the number of implants, any bone augmentation and the restoration placed on top.

Requirements and risks

The same requirements apply to a ceramic implant as to any implant: enough jawbone and gums that are free of inflammation. We treat any periodontitis beforehand, and if there is too little bone, bone augmentation may be necessary. Smoking, poorly controlled diabetes or certain medications can make healing more difficult.

As with any procedure, healing may take longer than expected, or an implant may fail to heal in. Plaque can also cause the tissue around ceramic implants to become inflamed (peri-implantitis). Thorough oral hygiene and regular check-ups are therefore important. If you have any problems after the procedure, please contact us at any time.

How we work at our practice

• Consultation and examination: We examine your teeth, gums and bone, discuss your wishes and compare ceramic and titanium with you, as well as alternatives such as a bridge.
• 3D planning: Using a three-dimensional X-ray and an intraoral scan, we plan the position, length and angle of the implant. Find out more in our guide 3D scanning in dentistry.
• Procedure: The implant is placed according to this plan using a surgical guide under local anaesthesia. Nitrous oxide sedation is available on request.
• Healing: The implant usually fuses with the bone within several weeks to a few months; after bone augmentation, it takes longer. If needed, you will receive a temporary restoration during this time.
• Final restoration: The crown is made in our partner laboratory StarDent or another specialised laboratory. We choose the material to suit your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Is a ceramic implant better than a titanium implant?

Not as a rule. Both materials have their strengths. Titanium has been tested for longer and is more versatile, while ceramic is metal-free and tooth-coloured. Which material makes more sense for you depends on your starting situation and your wishes.

I am worried about a titanium allergy. What now?

Genuine titanium allergies are rare. If you have concerns or would generally prefer no metal, please talk to us. A ceramic implant may then be an option, provided it suits your situation.

Does having a ceramic implant placed hurt?

The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia, so you usually feel nothing during it. Afterwards, there may be some pain or swelling for a few days. If you are anxious about the treatment, nitrous oxide is available on request; find out more on our page for anxious patients.

How much does a ceramic implant cost?

That depends on the individual case. On request, we will prepare a cost estimate for you in advance, which you can also submit to your insurer. You can find our rates under Tariff point values.

Would you like to know whether a ceramic implant is an option for you? Book a consultation online at our practice on Seestrasse in Küsnacht.