One and Truly Holistic Dental | Dental Bridges, Oral Surgery and Bone Regeneration

Zirconia Implants

Modern Dental Options for a Metal-Free Smile

Dental technology is constantly evolving, and that means better choices for your smile. One of the most exciting advancements we’ve seen in recent years is the rise of zirconia implants—a strong, biocompatible, and metal-free alternative to traditional titanium implants. At One and Truly Holistic Dental, we offer zirconia dental implants for patients who want a natural-looking, holistic solution that’s just as functional as it is aesthetic.

So what makes zirconia implants so unique? Let’s take a closer look at how they work, what they’re made of, and why so many patients are choosing this newer option to restore their smile.

What Are Zirconia Implants?

Zirconia implants are a type of ceramic dental implant made from zirconium dioxide—a crystal material that’s incredibly strong, highly biocompatible, and entirely metal-free. These implants function just like traditional implants, acting as artificial tooth roots that fuse with your jawbone to support a dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Zirconia is known for its natural white color, which blends beautifully with your existing teeth and gum tissue. It’s also non-corrosive, non-conductive, and resistant to plaque buildup, which means it can be a healthier option for some patients—especially those who may be sensitive to metal.

How Do Zirconia Implants Work?

Just like titanium implants, zirconia implants are surgically placed into the jawbone during a simple outpatient procedure. After placement, the implant needs time to integrate with your bone in a process called osseointegration. Over several months, the bone heals around the implant, creating a stable foundation for your restoration.

Once healing is complete, a crown or bridge is attached to the top of the implant. Because zirconia implants are typically one-piece designs (unlike the two-piece structure of titanium implants), they offer fewer gaps where bacteria can collect—another reason why many patients appreciate their clean, minimalist design.

At One and Truly Holistic Dental, we use precise digital planning and advanced imaging to ensure your zirconia implant is placed with accuracy, safety, and comfort in mind.

Why Choose Zirconia?

Zirconia implants are becoming more and more popular—not just for their aesthetics but for the overall health benefits they can provide. Here’s why many patients are opting for this ceramic implant option:

Biocompatibility

Zirconia is extremely biocompatible, meaning your body is unlikely to reject it. It doesn’t trigger inflammation or allergic reactions, making it a great choice for patients who are sensitive to metal or who prefer holistic dental care.

Aesthetic Appearance

Because zirconia is naturally white, it doesn’t create the gray line around the gums that sometimes occurs with metal implants—especially for people with thin or receding gum tissue. The result is a seamless, natural-looking restoration.

Metal-Free Design

Some patients want to avoid metal in their mouths for health or personal reasons. Zirconia implants provide a completely metal-free alternative without compromising strength or durability.

Low Plaque Accumulation

Studies show that zirconia attracts less plaque than titanium, which can mean better gum health and a reduced risk of peri-implantitis—a type of inflammation around dental implants.

When Are Zirconia Implants Recommended?

Zirconia implants may be the right fit for a variety of patients and situations, especially when aesthetics, materials, and long-term health are top priorities. You might be a good candidate if:

  • You’re looking for a metal-free alternative to traditional implants.
    Many patients prefer zirconia because it’s completely free of metal, which appeals to those who are sensitive to metals or simply want to avoid having them in their body. Zirconia offers a clean, biocompatible alternative that integrates well with your jawbone without the concerns associated with titanium.
  • You have a known sensitivity to titanium.
    Although rare, some individuals do experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to titanium. If you’ve had any issues with metal-based medical devices in the past, zirconia can offer a safer, more comfortable solution for your dental restoration.
  • You prioritize holistic or biological dentistry.
    Zirconia is often the implant of choice for patients who value a more natural approach to oral health. Its biocompatibility, low plaque retention, and non-conductive properties align well with holistic philosophies that emphasize minimizing synthetic materials in the body.
  • You’re concerned about gum aesthetics or want a more natural-looking result.
    Because zirconia is white and tooth-colored, it won’t show through the gums the way titanium sometimes can—especially if your gum tissue is thin or recedes slightly over time. This makes zirconia implants ideal for those who want their smile to look as natural and seamless as possible.
  • You want a strong, long-term solution for missing teeth.
    Zirconia may be newer to the implant world, but it’s incredibly strong, durable, and resistant to fracture. With proper care, zirconia implants can last for many years—often just as long as traditional titanium implants—making them a reliable choice for long-term tooth replacement.

Zirconia implants are especially helpful for front tooth restorations where appearance is key. Their natural color blends beautifully with the surrounding teeth, and the absence of metal ensures there’s no gray shadow at the gum line. This makes them a standout option for patients who want their smile to look completely natural—even up close.

What’s the Procedure Like?

Getting zirconia implants is a multi-phase process that closely mirrors the timeline for traditional dental implants, but with a metal-free twist. Each stage is carefully planned and customized to meet your unique dental needs and ensure long-term success.

It all begins with a comprehensive evaluation. At your initial consultation, we’ll take a deep dive into your oral health history and examine the current condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Using advanced digital imaging—such as 3D cone beam scans—we’re able to create a full picture of your oral structure. This allows us to precisely plan your implant placement and determine whether any preparatory procedures are needed, such as bone grafting or periodontal treatment.

Next comes the implant placement. Once your treatment plan is finalized, we’ll schedule the procedure to insert the zirconia implant into your jawbone. This is typically done under local anesthesia, though sedation options are available if you feel anxious or want to be more comfortable throughout the process. During surgery, the zirconia implant post is placed directly into the bone where your missing tooth root once was. Because zirconia implants are usually one solid piece, the placement must be incredibly accurate—and that’s where our experience and technology really shine.

After the implant is placed, the healing phase begins. This is where osseointegration takes place—a natural process where your jawbone fuses with the implant to create a strong, stable foundation. For zirconia implants, this healing period generally lasts several months, and while the timeline can vary from patient to patient, we’ll monitor your progress closely to ensure everything is going smoothly. In this phase, it’s crucial to follow our care instructions so the implant can integrate properly and set the stage for long-term success.

Once healing is complete and the implant is fully fused with your bone, it’s time to restore your smile. We’ll create a custom dental crown, bridge, or denture—depending on your needs—that attaches securely to the top of the implant. Because zirconia is naturally white and resists staining, your final restoration will look and feel just like a natural tooth. We take care to match the color, shape, and size of your new tooth so it blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

It’s also worth noting that in certain cases, we may need to perform a bone graft before placing your implant. This is often recommended if the jawbone isn’t dense or thick enough to support the implant on its own. If that’s the case, we’ll build up the bone in the area using a grafting material—often combined with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to enhance healing—and allow time for the graft to integrate before moving forward with implant placement.

Throughout every step of the process, our team at One and Truly Holistic Dental will guide you with clear communication, gentle care, and advanced tools that take the guesswork out of implant dentistry. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or restoring your entire smile, we’ll make sure you feel confident, informed, and well cared for every step of the way.

Are There Any Downsides?

While zirconia implants offer plenty of benefits, they’re not right for everyone. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Less Flexibility: Because most zirconia implants are one-piece, they’re less adaptable than two-piece titanium implants in certain cases.
  • Technique Sensitivity: The placement of zirconia implants requires a skilled and experienced provider—like our team at One and Truly Holistic Dental.
  • Limited Long-Term Data: Zirconia implants are newer than titanium, so while early studies show excellent outcomes, there’s still ongoing research about their long-term success compared to traditional implants.

We’ll help you weigh your options and determine whether zirconia is the right choice based on your individual health, goals, and preferences.

Ready to Restore Your Smile with Zirconia?

If you’re looking for a natural, strong, and metal-free way to replace missing teeth, zirconia implants could be the perfect fit. At One and Truly Holistic Dental, we’re proud to offer this advanced solution to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with long-term comfort and confidence.

Want to know more about zirconia implants or see if you’re a candidate? Give us a call or schedule a consultation—we’d love to help you explore your options and find the right solution for your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are zirconia implants made of?

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Zirconia implants are made from a high-strength, biocompatible ceramic material called zirconium oxide. This material is completely metal-free and has a white, tooth-like color, making it an ideal choice for patients who prefer a natural appearance and those who are sensitive to metals. Zirconia is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to wear, ensuring it can function like a natural tooth.

Are zirconia implants as strong as titanium implants?

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Yes, zirconia implants are strong and durable, though titanium implants are typically more common. Zirconia implants have been shown to provide excellent support for restorations, especially for front teeth, where aesthetics are important. While titanium is slightly stronger in some cases, zirconia offers comparable strength, making it a reliable and long-lasting option for tooth replacement.

How long does it take to heal after getting a zirconia implant?

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The healing process for zirconia implants is similar to that of traditional titanium implants. After the implant is placed into the jawbone, it typically takes 3 to 6 months for the implant to fully integrate with the bone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, you may be asked to avoid certain foods or activities that could disturb the healing process. Once healing is complete, a crown, bridge, or denture is placed on top of the implant to restore full function and appearance.

Are zirconia implants a good option for people with gum sensitivity?

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Yes, zirconia implants are an excellent choice for people with gum sensitivity. Since zirconia is a smooth, non-metallic material, it’s less likely to cause irritation or reactions in the gum tissue compared to titanium implants. Additionally, the white color of zirconia helps maintain a natural look, especially in the gum line, preventing the "dark ring" effect that can sometimes occur with titanium implants.

How do zirconia implants compare in price to traditional titanium implants?

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Zirconia implants are generally more expensive than traditional titanium implants due to the advanced materials and manufacturing processes involved. However, the additional cost is often justified for patients who want a metal-free option or those seeking a more natural aesthetic for their dental restoration. While the upfront cost may be higher, zirconia implants can provide long-term benefits, especially for individuals who value holistic or biological dentistry.

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Dental Office in Glen Cove

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70 Glen Street
Suite 240
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Cosmetic Dental Office 11542

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