I Have Metal Allergies – Can I Still Get Dental Implants?

Life can be challenging for those with metal sensitivities. While many people think the only real inconvenience is having to avoid certain jewelry, the truth is that metal is used in many common medical treatments, from pacemakers to amalgam fillings. But what happens if you want to replace your missing teeth with dental implants? Because of their titanium posts, some patients believe they can’t get these durable, lifelike restorations. The good news is that with zirconia implants, there’s a good chance they still can! Here’s more about these metal alternatives, and how they can safely restore your healthy, beautiful smile!

Why Dentists Choose Titanium

Titanium may seem like an interesting choice for a dental implant but believe it or not dentists have been attempting to create permanent restorations for centuries. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that this metal was discovered to be biocompatible with human bones for use in medical applications like dental implants. This allowed it to stand up to the rigors of chewing, all the while stimulating the jaw and preventing deterioration and further tooth loss.

Is Zirconia Better?

Although titanium is a perfectly safe and effective choice for most patients, if you have metal allergies or sensitivities, none of those perks matter. Thankfully, dental implant manufacturers understand this, which is why in 1987 they developed zirconia implants, a metal-free porcelain that was as strong and durable as titanium, but that didn’t cause negative reactions in patients with metal allergies.

In addition to being metal-free, zirconia has its own unique benefits that may lead even those without sensitivity to choose them, including their more natural looking white color, lower risk of plaque accumulation, and because they’re porcelain, they’re not corrosive and won’t rust.

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

The good news for patients with metal allergies is that there is still a possibility they can qualify for dental implants. However, in order to do that, it’s important to be in good oral health. This means if you have any dangerous conditions like gum disease, you will need to treat those first. Furthermore, if your jaw has suffered from deterioration, you may require a sinus lift or bone graft prior to dental implant surgery. Ultimately, the best way to determine if you’re a good candidate for treatment is to visit your dentist for a consultation.

Remember, having a metal allergy can certainly complicate your daily life, but it shouldn’t stop you from restoring your gorgeous grin with dental implants! If you’re ready to permanently replace missing teeth, talk to your dentist about zirconia prosthetics today and get back your healthy, beautiful smile without the metal!

About Our Practice

At Peery & Woolwine Family Dentistry, we are pleased to offer your entire dental implant treatment in-house. Imagine, having a healthy, beautiful, complete smile that lasts a lifetime! To learn more about dental implants with or without a metal allergy, visit our website or call 434-847-5331 to schedule a consultation.