Dental Implants Metal Allergy
Titanium has been the go-to material choice for dental implants for several decades. Unlike other metal types, titanium has the unique property of naturally fusing with bone over a period of several months through a process called osseointegration. Once the titanium post has fused with the jawbone, it can then act as the new root for the replacement tooth, which is connected to the post with an abutment.
Although titanium dental implants have a very high success rate and are supported by decades of research, this material type may not be effective for all patients, especially among patients who have metal allergies. For patients who do have an allergy to this particular metal, it is possible that their body will reject the implant entirely, in which case other treatment options may need to be explored.
There are varying degrees of severity that can occur with an allergic reaction, ranging from something as minor as a rash to something as life threating as a person’s body systems shutting down. The most common type of metal allergy is to nickel, though even this allergy type is very rare and typically only occurs upon external contact, such as wearing jewelry made of nickel that results in a rash. The possibility of a more extreme reaction is much higher, however, if the allergic reaction occurs in response to a body replacement part.
Numerous metals may be used as part of a dental procedure, including copper, tin, gold, silver, and mercury. While it is rare for patients to have an allergic reaction to any of these metal types, it is even rarer for a patient to have an allergic reaction to titanium; however, the possibility does exist, which is why it is important to get tested for metal allergies and be aware of alternative treatment options that are available for patients who have metal allergies.
Common Symptoms of a Titanium Allergy
A MELISA test is the most effective way to identify if you have a titanium allergy. This test involves isolating and exposing your white blood cells to titanium to measure your body’s immune response. A skin test can also be conducted to determine if you have a titanium allergy, but these tests are less reliable.
Common symptoms of a metal allergy include:
- Hives and bumps in the mouth
- Dry patches of gingiva
- Inflammation of the gums and around the implant
- Sores and/or swelling in the oral soft tissues
Zirconia Dental Implants
While titanium has historically been the only material type available for patients wanting dental implants, patients who have a titanium allergy or who would prefer to not have metal placed in their body now have the option of zirconia dental implants, which are comprised of a metal oxidized structure. This structure eliminates the risk of an allergic reaction from metal and also has a number of unique benefits compared to traditional titanium dental implants, which include:
- Does not corrode
- Durable solution with solid fracture resistance
- Smaller risk of accumulating plaque when compared with titanium dental implants
- Reduces the risk of visibility through the gums, resulting in a better aesthetic appearance. This consideration is especially important for patients who have thin gums or who are having a front tooth replaced. Unlike titanium,
- zirconia implants are not dark and will not be noticeable when smiling.
Although these are compelling qualities to consider, it is also important to be aware of some of the drawbacks associated with zirconia dental implants, which include:
- Greater procedural complexity. Zirconia implants are one-piece implants, unlike titanium implants, which have multiple parts. As such, placement of a zirconia implant is much more difficult and has an increased risk of failure. Zirconia implants are also not recommended for angled abutment.
- More likely to deteriorate and develop tiny cracks over time.
- Because zirconia implants are a newer procedure, they are not backed by the same amount of research and efficacy studies as titanium dental implants.
- Not generally recommended for patients with bruxism, as there is an increased likelihood of the implant wearing down, due to constant grinding of one’s teeth.
Other Treatment Options
While titanium or zirconia dental implants are both wonderful options for replacing missing teeth, there are additional treatment options available that may also be a good fit for your unique needs and treatment goals, including:
- Snap-in denture: This system combines dentures and implants to provide a natural looking and feeling solution that is more cost affordable than permanent dental implants. Unlike permanent dentures, the denture snaps onto the implant and can be removed.
- Temporary partial denture: This treatment option restores a patients smile in a manner similar to a retainer. The temporary partial denture can contain one or more teeth and be easily removed to clean and while sleeping.
- Although temporary partial dentures do not restore the same strength and stability as snap-in dentures or permanent dental implants, they are one of the most affordable treatment options for missing teeth.
- Dental bridge: Patients who are missing teeth but still have some natural teeth remaining may consider dental bridges. The dental bridge consists of a replacement tooth/or teeth and is attached to surrounding crowns. This is a very cost affordable solution; however the dental bridge does not provide the same level of strength and stability as traditional dental implants.
Schedule a Consultation
Hopefully this overview has given you helpful information about dental implants and the risk of metal allergies, steps you can take to determine if you have a metal allergy, and alternative treatment options that may be better suited to your unique needs. If you have additional questions about dental implants and metal allergies, would like to be tested for a metal allergy, or would like to learn more about alternative metal-free treatment options, schedule an appointment with your periodontist today. This consultation will be an opportunity for your periodontist to thoroughly evaluate your oral health, provide their professional recommendation for treatment, and address any remaining questions you may have about the dental implant procedure!