Zirconia Implants
Zirconia dental implants are a metal-free, natural-looking alternative to titanium. Made from strong, biocompatible ceramic, they blend seamlessly with real teeth. Explore the different types of zirconia implants to find the best option for your smile and long-term oral health.
Types of Zirconia Implants
Zirconia implants, also known as ceramic dental implants, are a popular choice for those seeking metal-free teeth restoration.
These dental implants are made of zirconia, a strong and biocompatible material that closely resembles natural teeth.
When considering zirconia implants, it’s essential to understand the different types available to choose the right option for your specific needs.
Main Versions of Zirconia Dental Implants
Zirconia dental implants come in two main versions: one-piece and two-piece implants.
Unlike titanium metal implants, which are used by 99% of dentists in the USA and are only available as two-piece dental implants requiring several components for surgical placement in the jaw, ceramic implants, particularly the one-piece zirconia implant version, consist of a single connected part – the implant and abutment together.
This design offers significant benefits over the two-piece titanium implant.
Tissue Level vs. Bone Level Implants
Another classification of zirconia implants is based on their placement level: tissue level or bone level.
While nearly all titanium implants are bone level, most ceramic dental implants are tissue level, which also has its advantages that will be discussed in detail.
Within the two-piece zirconia implant category, various brands and models feature different connection types between the implant and the abutment, which will be explored below.
FDA-Approved Zirconia Dental Implant Types in the US
This article will examine the FDA-approved zirconia dental implant types available in the US:
- One-Piece Zirconia Implants
- Two-Piece Zirconia Implants
- Cementable
- Three-Piece Zirconia Implants (Screw Retained)
- Carbon Fiber Screw (Zeramex or Nobel Pearl)
- Metal Screw (TAV Dental or Straumann)
- Tissue Level vs. Bone Level Implants
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The Anatomy of a Dental Implant
Dental implants can range from a single connected piece, often considered the best and strongest zirconia implant by top zirconia implant dentists like Dr. May, to up to four separate components, as sometimes seen in complex metal titanium implant designs.
To better understand the comparison between different zirconia implant types and how they compare to titanium implant types, we will review a diagram showing each piece of the implant for both ceramic and metal implants.
Once the basics of the implant, abutment, screw-retained abutment, cementable abutment, tissue level, and bone level varieties are clear, we’ll explain the merits and disadvantages of each type of zirconia implant and how it compares to the standard titanium implant models.
One-Piece Zirconia Implants
The main advantage of a one-piece zirconia implant is the absence of prosthetic connections, meaning there is no “gap space” where the abutment meets the implant screw body.
This connection point in two-piece zirconia dental implants is typically where bacteria can grow, making one-piece implants better for long-term gum health.
Two-Piece Zirconia Implants
Two-piece zirconia implants are used in certain clinical situations where a one-piece zirconia implant cannot be used.
Three-Piece Zirconia Implants
Three-piece zirconia implants feature a screw, a third component that holds the implant body and the implant abutment together.
It’s crucial to note that not all three-piece zirconia implants are metal-free. TAV Dental offers what they refer to as a two-piece zirconia dental implant that is attached by a metal screw.
While the metal screw does not come into direct contact with the bone or tissue, some patients choose not to have this specific model as it is not 100% metal-free.
Other three-piece zirconia dental implants are manufactured by Z-Systems, featuring a zirconia screw and a bone-level implant.
This implant type is generally used by conventional oral surgeons and dentists who are accustomed to placing and restoring titanium implants.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Zirconia Implants
What are zirconia implants?
Zirconia implants, also known as ceramic dental implants, are a metal-free alternative to traditional titanium implants. They are made from zirconia, a strong and biocompatible material that closely resembles the appearance of natural teeth.
What are the advantages of zirconia implants over titanium implants?
Zirconia implants offer several advantages over titanium implants, including:
- Metal-free: Zirconia implants are an excellent option for patients with metal allergies or those who prefer a metal-free solution.
- Aesthetics: Zirconia implants are white and translucent, providing a more natural-looking result, especially for patients with thin or receding gums.
- Biocompatibility: Zirconia is a highly biocompatible material, meaning it integrates well with the jawbone and surrounding tissues.
- Gum health: One-piece zirconia implants have no prosthetic connections, which can help prevent bacterial growth and promote long-term gum health.
What are the different types of zirconia implants?
There are three main types of zirconia implants:
- One-piece zirconia implants: These implants have the implant and abutment as a single connected piece, offering a strong and seamless design.
- Two-piece zirconia implants: These implants consist of a separate implant and abutment, which are connected using cement.
- Three-piece zirconia implants: These implants feature a screw that holds the implant body and abutment together. Some three-piece zirconia implants use a metal screw, while others use a zirconia screw.
What is the difference between tissue level and bone level zirconia implants?
Tissue level zirconia implants are designed to sit at the gum line, while bone level implants are placed deeper into the jawbone. Most zirconia implants are tissue level, which can offer advantages in terms of gum health and aesthetics.
Are zirconia implants as strong as titanium implants?
Zirconia is a highly durable and strong material, and zirconia implants have been shown to have similar success rates to titanium implants. However, the strength of an implant also depends on factors such as the implant design, placement, and the patient’s overall oral health.
How long do zirconia implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, zirconia implants can last many years, potentially even a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like smoking can help extend the life of your zirconia implants.
Are zirconia implants suitable for everyone?
While zirconia implants are a great option for many patients, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as jawbone density, overall health, and the specific location of the missing tooth can influence whether zirconia implants are the best choice. Your dentist or oral surgeon can help determine if zirconia implants are right for you.
How much do zirconia implants cost?
The cost of zirconia implants can vary depending on factors such as the type of implant, the number of implants needed, and the location of the dental practice. In general, zirconia implants may cost more than traditional titanium implants. It’s best to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
About Dr. Yuriy May
Widely sought after for his precision and leadership in biological oral surgery and zirconia implantology, Dr. Yuriy May is recognized as an accomplished leader in metal-free, biologically driven dentistry. With over 12 years of clinical experience, his work is defined by uncompromising standards, refined surgical execution, and outcomes that support both oral and systemic health.
Dr. May holds advanced certifications and training in zirconia implantology from programs ranging from IAOCI and Tufts University, is Board Certified as a Naturopathic Dentist by the ANMCB, and is a distinguished Ceramic Implant Ambassador for SDS—an honor reserved for clinicians shaping the future of ceramic implant science.
A respected educator and international lecturer, Dr. May has presented extraordinary ceramic implant cases to dentists worldwide, including the JCCI in Switzerland, and has served as an instructor in the Ceramic Implant Program at ACIMD. He lectures nationally, publishes complex metal-free surgical cases, and serves as a Board Member of the IAOCI (International Academy of Oral Ceramic Implantology). Dr. May has recently become an Associate Fellow of the AAID (American Academy of Implant Dentistry), one of the few focusing solely on zirconia dental implants, and has been and an Accredited S.M.A.R.T. Certified member of the IAOMT for many years. He is also a Certified Biological Dentist with the IABDM, reflecting his commitment to removing root canal infections and to mercury-safe, evidence-based biological protocols.
Dr. May’s reputation, results, and excellence in ceramic implant dentistry have made him a destination provider for patients and referring clinicians seeking the highest level of ceramic implant surgery and biological dental care.
DMD, IBDM, AIAOMT, CIABDM
Associate Fellow, American Academy of Implant Dentistry
ANMCB Board Certified Naturopathic Dentist