In some cases, implants can be placed directly into the extraction site at the time of tooth removal. This is called immediate implant placement and it is ideal for implants in the esthetic smile zone and for back teeth when there is enough healthy bone to support the implant. In most cases, largely because of infection or lack of bone in the sinus area, the implant often needs to be delayed for 3-6 months for the adequate bone to regrow and heal properly. This is called delayed implant placement. In our office we use 3D CBCT technology and sophisticated virtual implant planning software by Anatomage™ to provide Guided Implant Surgery for every implant we do in order to achieve predictable, precise, and optimal results.

Titanium, the most common material of choice for implants today, was for many years considered bioinert, meaning it causes little to no reaction in the mouth. Titanium implants however are not all manufactured under the same quality standards – many are composed of metal alloys containing aluminum, vanadium, nickel, and other trace elements to decrease cost. These dissimilar metals conduct electricity and are vulnerable to galvanic corrosion (create a hyperlink to Galvanism) which releases titanium-alloy oxides into the surrounding bone and gums.

Corrosion of implant materials can be a serious health issue and has been linked to auto-immune disorders, metal hypersensitivity, and metal allergies. It has been estimated that at least 4% and possibly as high as 25% of patients are biochemically intolerant to titanium and have allergic reactions to these metals. In addition, up to 80% of patients with titanium implants have periimplantitis – a chronic gum inflammation that is linked to cardiovascular disease and causes bone loss which can lead to implant failure.

Fortunately, Zirconia has emerged as the most biocompatible implant material to date. Ceramic implants made of zirconium oxide offer the same benefits of strength, durability, and excellent integration in the bone as titanium but are 100% metal-free. This is one of the biggest benefits of ceramic dental implants – they do not conduct electricity, are corrosion-free, and hypoallergenic – reducing the risk of allergies or intolerances developing over time.