Dental Implants in West Palm Beach | Is the Metal in Dental Implants Safe?

The long-term success of dental implants in West Palm Beach is dependent on the appropriate selection of the implant biomaterial. Every dental professional should know and gain thorough knowledge about the different biomaterials used for dental implants. To optimize biologic performance, implants should be selected to reduce the biologic response while maintaining adequate function because the biological environment doesn’t completely accept any material.

Is Titanium Toxicity in Dental Implants a Real Thing?

Titanium has been used in dentistry for decades and is now the metal of choice for internal fixation, prosthetics, and false eye implants, neurosurgery, and is used from head to toe in biomedical implants. Due to titanium’s resistance to corrosion from bodily fluids, high fatigue limit, bio-inertness, and capacity for osseointegration, it is considered as the most biocompatible metal. It can withstand the harsh bodily environment because of the protective oxide film that forms naturally in the presence of oxygen.

What About a Titanium Allergy?

An allergic reaction to titanium in dental implants can be reasonably suspected after dental implant placement. Titanium may cause hypersensitivity, which may consequently hinder the integration of the biomaterial where it is implanted. Though the prevalence of allergic reactions to titanium in dental implants is low (0.6%), metal allergy tests are highly recommended.

Why Titanium is Preferred for Implants Over Stainless Steel

Compared to stainless steel, titanium is stronger and lighter in weight. What makes titanium ideal for dental implants is its large resistance and has greater superior strength under repeated loads (constant pressure of chewing). This makes titanium capable of withstanding strain during internal fixation. Stainless steel has a higher modulus of elasticity than titanium. Titanium is less rigid, which limits the amount of stress on bone structures. Because of titanium’s resistance to corrosion compared to stainless steel implants, it is less vulnerable in generating an immune reaction.

Want to Learn More About Dental Implants in West Palm Beach?

Titanium is one of the most widely used materials for dental implants due to its long history of use, biocompatibility, and mechanical strength. If you suspect you have a metal allergy and titanium in dental implants in West Palm Beach worries you, schedule an appointment with our Ferber Dental Group to discuss this issue with us.