Ceramic Dental Implants: A Literature Review

Jodat Askari*, Mohammad Iqbal and Salim Ateyah

Received: November 02, 2017;   Published: November 13, 2017

DOI: 10.26717/BJSTR.2017.01.000522

Full Text PDF

To view the Full Article   Peer-reviewed Article PDF

Abstract

Background: Titanium, also known as conventional implant is the gold standard material for dental implant. The reason behind this is their outstanding biocompatibility, adequate mechanical properties and beneficial results. When exposed to air, titanium instantly develops a stable oxide layer, which forms the basis of its biocompatibility leading to a better Osseointegration [1-3]. Zirconia (ZrO2) is a ceramic material with sufficient mechanical properties for manufacturing of medical devices [2] Zirconia-based implants were introduced into dental implantology as a substitute to titanium implants. Zirconia seems like an appropriate candidate for implant material due to its tooth-like color, its biocompatibility and its mechanical properties and low plaque affinity [1,4] The major drawback of titanium is its gray color. In various situations, there could be an unaesthetic display of the metal components due to lack of soft tissue height over the implant level this can also take place following soft tissue recession and marginal bone loss [4,5]. Zirconia opacity is very helpful in unfavorable clinical situations. Radio- Opacity can aid evaluation during radiographic controls. Frameworks of Zirconia are made using computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/ CAM) technology [5].

Aims of this Study: The aim of this study is to review clinical and research articles conducted on zirconia dental implants, observe their success rate with a minimum follow up of 5years & compare them with titanium dental implants.

Materials and Methods: A literature search was performed of the Pub Med database using the following key words: ‘zirconia,’ ‘zirconia implant,’ ‘zirconia versus titanium. The searches were limited to articles in English published from 2003 to 2016.

Results: A total of 4 articles matched the criteria of a minimum 5year follow up study. A cumulative success rate of 92.2% was observed.

Conclusion: Literature search showed that the success and longevity of dental implants strongly depend on surface characteristics and adequate osseointegration. And that the use of right size, shape, length and diameter of the implant in optimal loading conditions would increase the chances of successful implant placement. Although it also highly depends on that the right technique is being followed by the operator. Some of the properties of zirconia seem to be suitable for making it an ideal dental implant, such as biocompatibility, osseointegration, favorable soft tissue response and aesthetics due to light transmission and its color. Zirconia can prove a feasible alternative in replacing titanium. A need for more clinical trials concerning resistance to failure in long-term is of high importance.

Key words: Zirconia; Zirconia implant; Zirconia versus titanium

Abstract| Introduction| Review of Literature| Materials and Methods| Results| Discussion| Conclusion| References|