New research has sought to compare two types of dental implant materials to see which is the most effective for replacing anterior teeth. A team compared direct composite and zirconia implants. This is an important research area, as the results can help to guide dentists and patients in choosing an implant that can improve treatment outcomes.
A new study has sought to measure the effectiveness of two different types of dental implant materials in an effort to see if one is superior to the other [1].
The research involves direct composite and zirconia materials. The aim was to see which was more effective when replacing a missing anterior tooth [1].
This is an important subject area, as implants are very popular. Knowing which type of implant is most effective can be helpful for both patients and dentists.
About dental implants
Dental implants are artificial teeth that look and act like a real tooth. They are a titanium or ceramic post that is inserted and integrated into the jawbone.
Implants are used in cases where a patient has lost a tooth. For example, this may be due to extensive tooth decay, trauma to the tooth, or severe gum disease.
Dental implants are typically highly effective. They can improve the look of a mouth, enhance chewing capabilities, and improve self-esteem [2].
Implants have also been growing in popularity in recent years. In fact, research suggests that by 2026, as many as 23% of American adults could have at least one dental implant [3]!
Implants can go anywhere. Many people opt for an implant if they lose an anterior tooth. Anterior teeth refer to those at the front – which are primarily used for biting.
There are a range of different types of implant materials. Two popular types include direct composite implants and zirconia implants.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team from various Japanese institutions. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Dentistry [1].
The research compared direct composite implants with zirconia implants. Composite implants have been around for many decades, while zirconia implants are newer.
Composite implants are made of a range of materials, including titanium, graphite and magnesium. Meanwhile, zirconia implants are a white and ceramic material, and metal-free [1].
The study involved 45 patients. These patients had received either a composite (17 patients) or zirconia (28 patients) implant for an anterior tooth. The researchers interviewed the researchers after three years [1].
They were looking to see the survival rate for both types of implants. In terms of defining “survival”, the researchers explained that any implant that had to be removed or remade were deemed to have not “survived” [1].
Therefore, the higher that the survival rate was, the better the material. The researchers were interested to see how the two materials compared.
Interestingly, direct composite implants had a higher survival rate. The researchers found that they had a 92.3% survival rate [1].
The zirconia implants had a 91.7% survival rate [1]. This was a marginal, but noticeable, difference, suggesting zirconia is an inferior material for an implant.
Reasons for failure included discoloration, framework fracture and debonding [1]. There are various potential causes of these failures.
Moreover, the researchers concluded that composite implants are also less invasive and take less time. They can be completed in a single visit, unlike zirconia implants, which usually require two visits. Therefore, this is another advantage of composite implants.
The researchers noted that their study had a rather small sample size. Moreover, not all patients would’ve looked after their implants in the same way. Therefore, this may have affected the results slightly.
Summary
The research produced interesting results. Composite implants proved to be more effective than zirconia implants. However, both proved effective.
It is positive that both had a success rate of over 90%. This underlines the potential effectiveness of dental implants, and shows why they are a popular treatment choice for many.
These results are useful for dentists and patients. Anterior teeth are the most noticeable teeth, so it is useful for patients to know which type of implant has the highest survival rate.
Similarly, dentists want their patients to have the best treatment outcomes, so this research can assist with this. Positive treatment outcomes is something that dentists always strive for.
It is likely that in the future, further research will take place into comparing other types of implant materials. Other materials exist, so further comparisons could help to declare the most effective type of implant.
Thinking points…
[1] While it is good to know that there are strong types of implants available, hopefully we won’t ever need them. One of the best ways to prevent problems with teeth is to regularly attend a dental clinic for a check-up. At a check-up, a dentist can take a thorough look at your oral health and check for any problems. We recommend booking an appointment now!
[2] Dental implants are very effective for anyone who wishes to either have a replacement tooth or to have a new tooth for cosmetic reasons. Here at Taradale Dental, we offer implant services. Implants are low risk, look natural, and are easy to fit. They can boost your self-esteem, and improve the overall look of your smile. Find our more on our website: https://taradaledental.ca/dental-implants-calgary/!
What we offer at Taradale Dental
Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Taradale Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Taradale Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Taradale Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://taradaledental.ca/!
References
[1] Sato, T., Hosaka, K., Tagami, J., Tashiro, H., Miki, H., Otani, K., Nishimura, M., Takahashi, M., Shimada, Y., & Ikeda, M. (2024). Clinical evaluation of direct composite versus zirconia resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses for a single missing anterior tooth: A short-term multicenter retrospective study. Journal of Dentistry. 151 (105401). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2024.105401.
[2] Moroianu, M., Moroianu, L. A., Curis, C., Matei, M. N., Bica, C., & Hainarosie, R. (2024). The Effect of Mental Health Conditions on Dental Implants. Romanian Journal of Military Medicine. p313-323. DOI: https://revistamedicinamilitara.ro/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/RJMM-vol-CXXVII-nr-4-din-2024-part-10.pdf.
[3] Elani, H. W., Silva, JD. D., & Gallucci, G. (2018). Trends in Dental Implant Use in the U.S., 1999–2016, and Projections to 2026. Journal of Dental Research. 97 (13): p1424-1430. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034518792567.
