Ceramic implants are dental implants made of a ceramic material that are shaped like a small screw. They are inserted into the jawbone of the tooth gap and are used to replace a lost tooth. Ceramic implants show excellent health compatibility, adapt to the gums and jawbone ideally, and set new standards in terms of aesthetics.

In this article, we would like to provide our patients with a detailed insight into the topic of ceramic implants.

Who are ceramic implants suitable for?

Ceramic implants are suitable for patients who are looking for a healthy and stable solution after a tooth extraction.

After tooth loss, ceramic implants are a valuable solution to close the gap between the teeth without harming one’s health. This is due to the ceramic material, which is biocompatible and very suitable for dental implants.

Ceramic also offers great aesthetics and is therefore also recommended for patients who want a natural tooth replacement.

Duration and procedure for placing a ceramic implant

Placing a ceramic implant takes about 30 minutes to a maximum of one hour. This depends on whether the tooth is extracted and the implant is placed immediately, or if there is already a gap between the teeth.

Before the ceramic implant is placed, the jawbone is prepared so that the implant screw can be inserted with a precise fit. The ceramic implant is then screwed into the jawbone. It is important to ensure that the axis, depth and torque are correct.

Ceramic implant placement can be combined with bone augmentation to increase long-term stability.

Ceramic implants require a healing time of approximately 3 months. During this time the bone is not yet fully connected to the implant, therefore little to no pressure should be put on the implant.

If implants are necessary in the front, the patient is given fixed provisional restorations made of composite, for aesthetics during the healing period.

After the ceramic implants have healed, individual ceramic crowns are cemented without a gap, after which the treatment is completed.

Ceramic implant advantages

Ceramic implants have several advantages that patients should know of if they are thinking about getting a dental implant. So, not only does it benefit one’s health, but also the dental aesthetics. The advantages of ceramic implants are listed below.

Zirconia is biocompatible

Ceramic implants are made of zirconium dioxide, a material with excellent health compatibility. Due to its extreme low solubility in aqueous solutions and inertness, its biological properties are ideal.

Gums love ceramics

Fewer bacterial biofilms and plaque accumulate on ceramic implants than on titanium implants. The surrounding gums adhere very well to ceramic and the risk of gingivitis is significantly reduced. Ceramic implants are even less prone to gingivitis than natural teeth.

The adjacent gingiva shows very good blood circulation and forms a strong bond with the ceramic. This gum-ceramic bond prevents the penetration of oral bacteria into the bone and thus into the blood circulation system. Therefore, the “immunological door” is closed, which is an important essential for health.

Consequently, there is less inflammation around the implant, which speaks for the high long-term success of ceramic implants.

Integration into the bone

In addition to the excellent attachment of gums, the jawbone can adapt very well to the ceramic implants and be integrated by the jawbone. This good osseointegration has been proven in many studies. After only a few minutes, an accumulation of fibrin forms on the ceramic surface. The formation of such a fibrin network is the prerequisite for optimal healing in the bone.

Ceramic is rigid and does not deform

Since the entire ceramic implant does not deform due to masticatory forces, it remains rigid and immobile.

The lack of movement and deflection means that there are no pressure peaks on the surrounding bone, thus preserving the existing bone height.

Ceramic can be customized

The abutment (implant abutment) is cemented onto the ceramic implant, completely gap-free. Then both the ceramic implant and ceramic abutment can be individually milled as a preparation for the ceramic crown. Here, the procedure is exactly the same as for a natural tooth. This is a great advantage because the crown margin can be perfectly adapted to the gum. Grinding the ceramic does not reduce the stability of the material. This has been confirmed in recent studies.

Excellent esthetics

Ceramic implants are white, which is a considerable advantage for natural aesthetics and beautiful teeth. This is because, should the gums recede somewhat, the visible white margin is not obvious, but blends in visually with the overall appearance. A metallic grayish color, on the other hand, as with titanium implants, does not look aesthetic or healthy.