Abstract
This review aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of zirconia implants compared with titanium implants. Moreover, it intends to review the relevant available long-term literature of these two materials regarding osteointegration, soft-tissue, microbiota, and peri-implantitis, focusing on clinical results. Briefly, titanium implants are a reliable alternative for missing teeth; however, they are not incapable of failure. In an attempt to provide an alternative implant material, implants made from ceramic-derivate products were developed. Owing to its optimal osseointegration competence, biocompatibility, and esthetic proprieties, zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), also known as zirconia, has gained popularity among researchers and clinicians, being a metal-free alternative for titanium implants with its main use in the anterior esthetic zones. This type of implant may present similar osseointegration as those noted on titanium implants with a greater soft-tissue response. Furthermore, this material does not show corrosion as its titanium analog, and it is less susceptible to bacterial adhesion. Lastly, even presenting a similar inflammatory response to titanium, zirconia implants offer less biofilm formation, suggesting less susceptibility to peri-implantitis. However, it is a relatively new material that has been commercially available for a decade; consequently, the literature still lacks studies with long follow-up periods.
Highlights
Since Brånemark’s first implant attempts until now, dental implant therapy has advanced remarkably with innovations on both surgical and prosthetic fronts
Studies to report the clinical success of zirconia implants and osseointegration compared with titanium
To conclude, answering the question posed in the title of this review, it is unlikely that zirconia implants will replace the titanium implants’ use entirely owing to the high success rates, long-term stability, and satisfactory osseointegration of the titanium implants found on the market nowadays
Summary
Since Brånemark’s first implant attempts until now, dental implant therapy has advanced remarkably with innovations on both surgical and prosthetic fronts. Peri-implantitis is a pathological condition occurring in the peri-implant tissues, characterized by inflammation in the peri-implant mucosa and subsequent progressive loss of supporting bone. Even in a passive environment, the basal implant corrosion rate is 0.02 mm/year to 0.13 mm/year [5] Another drawback of titanium implants is their dark color. Implants are a popular solution for edentulous areas, and with the plethora of information available, patients search for different implant alternatives and come to dental offices requesting other options to the conventional titanium. In this matter, clinicians are raising questions such as whether the zirconia implants are reliable? This review’s ultimate objective is to provide qualified information to support the decision-making process of clinicians regarding implant material
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