Titanium Dental Implant in India
Titanium Implants in India – Since the 1960s, titanium has become a popular metallic biomaterial because of its properties for many biomechanical applications including dentistry. Although there is an increasing trend for metal-free restorations in the dental profession, failures in the form of fracture or chipping associated with such materials are still being reported indicating that there is still place for the indication of metal-ceramic fixed-dental-prosthesis (FDP).
On the other hand, the use of titanium as an implant material has become an integral part of dental therapy. The high cost of noble alloys and the potential biological hazards of the base metal alloys were the main reasons for the introduction of commercially pure titanium (cpTi) and some of its alloys for the construction of dental prostheses and oral implants. cpTi has been used in dentistry for more than five decades but there still seems to be potential to improve this material and its processing techniques in order to avoid possible biomechanical or biological complications.
When looking for replacement teeth, there are a lot of factors to consider. Due to increasing interest in holistic medicine and the concern of putting anything synthetic in our bodies, more and more patients are asking questions about the makeup of dental implants. For most patients, getting dental implants is a big step towards improving their oral health and so we understand that they want to make sure that they do the best thing for their bodies.
Pros and Cons of Titanium Implants
The benefits of titanium implants are clear — that’s why most implants are made of titanium.
- 95% success rate
- Long-lasting (30 years or more)
- Strong and durable yet lightweight
- Titanium implants can come in two-piece varieties, which is helpful if angled implants are needed to correct your implant positioning.
- These implants have high resistance to corrosion in the mouth and excellent biocompatibility with the bone and gum tissues, according to a review in the Indian Journal of Dermatology.
However, there are also several disadvantages associated with titanium implants:
- Although it is rare, a titanium implant may fail if the patient has an allergic reaction to the metal. Patients who have a history of allergies should receive a metal allergy assessment before placement of a permanent titanium implant.
- For patients with certain autoimmune conditions — such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease or diabetes — metal ions released from the implant can cause local inflammation and irritation, according to an article by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology.
- If the tissue around the implant is thin, the dark metal may show through, resulting in poor aesthetics.
Also See: Dental Implants in India
Benefits and challenges
- Scientific evidence: The very foundation of dental implantology was initiated by Prof P-I Brånemark over 65 years ago, after the discovery of natural bone attachment to titanium – osseointegration. Since this observation, a vast body of scientific evidence and decades of clinical cases have grown to underpin a solid basis of knowledge. Additionally, the wide ranges of applications and positive user experiences have served to create high levels of trust regarding the performance of many titanium implants.
- A wealth of indications: A vast number of products are available for many indications. For most indications a wide choice is available, all the way from single restorations for starters and general practitioners to the most complex cases of total rehabilitation, demonstrated by world-renowned experts in implantology. From a practical perspective, however, this vast choice may be overwhelming. This is one reason why adequate hands-on training is crucial for dental professionals when starting and progressing implant treatment.
- Strength: Titanium is highly resistant to external forces, and implant fractures are rare making it a solution in a vast array of cases where resistance of the material is crucial.
One of the challenges with titanium implants is patient aversion to metallic medical devices being placed in their body, which can become displayed with mucosal recession and visibility of gray titanium. The emotional feel of a more ‘natural’ alternative may be of preference.
Can patients be allergic to titanium dental implants?
- Allergy or hypersensitivity is sometimes posed as a drawback for titanium implants. However, it is important to note that allergic reactions appear to be very rare. In one study, just 0.6% of patients displayed reactions to titanium in an allergy test.
- If the patient is concerned that they may have an allergy to titanium, it is advisable to refer them to an allergist, and to act with caution in informing the patient that it is the definitive reason for placing a zirconia instead of titanium implant. If the patient has suffered implant failure and considers titanium allergy a possible reason, be aware that ‘rejection’ is most commonly associated with patient factors (such as smoking or hygiene), failure of the bioprocess of osseointegration or challenges with the surgical technique.
- Nonetheless, should there be concern over a potential patient reaction to titanium; a zirconia implant can provide a reassuring alternative.
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