Zirconia Dental Implants
A natural-looking alternative for patients who prefer a metal-free option.
At 5 Dental & Skin, implant assessment,planning and aftercare are delivered by our resident implant expert, ensuring every case is carefully planned for long-term success.
Expert in Dental Implants
GDC Number – 78285
Specialist focus in implant dentistry, periodontology and peri-implant treatment.
Price
Consultation £262.50
(60-Minute implant assessment)
(depending on case complexity)
Expert Care
Implant treatment planned and delivered by Bhavin Pitamber, with advanced expertise in implant and periodontal care.
What are zirconia dental implants?
Zirconia implants are made from high-strength ceramic (zirconium dioxide). They are designed to replace missing teeth by providing a stable foundation for a crown, bridge or implant-retained restoration.
Titanium implants remain the most established option in dentistry, with the largest body of long-term evidence. Zirconia implants are an increasingly popular alternative for patients who want a metal-free material, particularly where aesthetics are a priority.
Key benefits of zirconia implants
- Metal-free: suitable for patients who prefer to avoid metal or who have concerns about metal sensitivity.
- Aesthetic advantage: tooth-coloured material can be beneficial where thin gum tissues or limited bone might allow for implant components to show in the smile zone.
- Biocompatible: zirconia is well tolerated by the body and integrates with bone (osseointegration).
- Soft tissue response: research suggests zirconia can perform comparably to titanium for certain clinical outcomes, with good patient satisfaction in single-tooth restorations.
- Low plaque affinity (potential benefit): some studies report reduced plaque accumulation and microbial adhesion on zirconia surfaces, which may support peri-implant tissue health when combined with excellent home care and maintenance.
Zirconia vs titanium: choosing the right material
Both zirconia and titanium implants can be excellent choices. The best option depends on your individual needs, your bite and tooth position, bone volume, gum thickness, and the type of restoration planned.
In general:
- Titanium implants are the long-standing ‘gold standard’ with extensive long-term data and a wide range of component options.
- Zirconia implants offer a metal-free alternative and may be preferred where aesthetics are critical or where a patient strongly prefers a non-metal ceramic material.
- Current evidence indicates zirconia can be a viable alternative in selected cases, while also noting that the overall evidence base and long-term data volume is still greater for titanium.
Who may be suited to zirconia implants?
Zirconia implants may be suitable if:
- You want a metal-free implant material.
- You are replacing a missing tooth (or small number of teeth), especially in the front of the mouth where aesthetics matter.
- You have healthy gums and commit to excellent oral hygiene and maintenance visits.
- Your clinical assessment confirms that the implant can be placed in an ideal position and restored predictably.
Zirconia implants may not be suitable if:
- Your case requires highly angled components or complex multi-unit restorations (depending on the system used).
- You have significant bite forces or parafunction (e.g., severe grinding) – you may still be a candidate, but planning is key.
- Bone volume or gum conditions mean additional grafting or staged approaches are required (this is case-dependent).
What to expect: your implant journey
1) Consultation & assessment: Clinical examination, imaging, and a discussion of goals, risks, alternatives and costs.
2) Planning: We plan the implant position based on the proposed final tooth shape, aiming for an optimal functional and natural result.
3) Implant placement: The implant is placed into the jawbone. Healing time varies by case.
4) Restoration: A bespoke crown or bridge is fitted once the implant has fused with the bone structure.
5) Aftercare & maintenance: Regular reviews and hygiene support help protect gum and bone health around implants.
Zirconia implant FAQs
Zirconia implant FAQs
Evidence suggests zirconia implants can achieve good survival and success outcomes comparable to titanium. However, titanium has been the material of choice for much longer.
Implant health depends on many factors including gum health, home care, smoking, and maintenance. Some studies report lower plaque accumulation on zirconia surfaces, which may be helpful, but it is not a guarantee.
Zirconia is metal-free and is often considered for patients with suspected or confirmed metal sensitivity. If you have a history of allergy or reactions, tell us during your consultation so we can advise accordingly.
Zirconia’s tooth-like colour can be beneficial in the smile zone, especially where gum tissue is thin and a grey hue might otherwise show.
Not always. Some cases are better served by titanium because of the range of components and proven versatility. We will recommend the most predictable option for your mouth and your goals.
Request an appointment or more information
