Does your skin get itchy and irritated when you wear jewelry or when your belt buckle touches your skin? You probably have an allergy to at least one type of metal. Because of that, you may have questions about your options for tooth replacement. Can people with metal allergies still get dental implants? In most cases, the answer is yes! This blog post touches on your possible treatment options.
Titanium Allergies Are Rare
Conventional dental implants are made of titanium alloy. Most patients, including those with allergies to other types of metal like nickel and cobalt, tolerate medical-grade titanium very well. One study even indicated that less than 1% of the population has a titanium allergy. However, other studies have found much higher rates of allergic reactions.
If you believe or even suspect that you would have an adverse reaction to titanium implants, it may be wise to speak to your primary care physician or allergist. At Orbis Dental Group, our team can also test reactivity levels to metal, so you are also welcome to visit us if you have concerns about metal sensitivities! They can conduct a test to find out whether titanium is safe for you.
Of course, even if it looks like titanium may work for you, you may still want to err on the side of caution. Talk to your dentist to find out if you are a candidate for zirconia implants instead.
What Are Zirconia Dental Implants?
Zirconia dental implants, sometimes called zirconium oxide implants, are made out of a type of ceramic. Therefore, they are suitable even for patients who are sensitive to titanium. Similar to their traditional counterparts, they are very strong and have the potential to last for many years. In recent times, they have become increasingly popular among individuals who are looking for a biocompatible alternative to conventional dental implants.
Zirconia implants have other advantages as well. For example, unlike titanium implants, they are invulnerable to corrosion. They also offer pleasing aesthetics because they are white. Titanium implants, on the other hand, sometimes create a grayish cast in the gum tissue.
Your Personalized Tooth Replacement Plan
Your metal allergies and sensitivities are just one factor that your dental team will consider when they are considering your tooth replacement options. Once they understand your oral and overall health, they can design a treatment plan that has a very high chance of success!
Meet the Practice
The experts at Orbis Dental Group are proud to provide comprehensive dental implant services for patients throughout the San Antonio area. We have a strong focus on holistic care, so we are proud to offer both zirconia and conventional titanium dental implants — we always want to do what is best for each unique patient! To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 210-496-1919.