Can I Get Dental Implants If I Have Metal Allergies?
Posted by writeradmin
I am losing a tooth and would really like to replace it with a dental implant. However, I am concerned about my metal allergies. I have severe allergies to nickel, cobalt, and mercury. Is it even possible for me to get a dental implant? My wife says they are made of metal. If that is true, what is the next best option for me?
Carter
Dear Carter,
While it is true that dental implants are made from metal, the metal they use is titanium. Not only is that not on your list, but titanium is very biocompatible. It’s been used for decades in a variety of prosthetics. This included teeth roots, hips, and knees. I don’t think you’ll have a problem with the titanium. However, if you are still concerned, there are two options.
First, you could see an allergist and get tested specifically for a titanium allergy. Another option is to get a zirconia implant instead of titanium. These are metal-free. Zirconia is very strong and is nicknamed ceramic steel. These have not been around for as long as the traditional dental implants so not as many dentists use them. If that is what you want, I do believe you will be able to find one.
No matter which type of implant you decide to use, make sure the dentist has post-doctoral training with dental implants. This is important. It is an advanced procedure which is not adequately taught in dental school. It requires more. There are countless dental implant horror stories.
If you decide on another option, then the next best procedure is to get a dental bridge. I don’t think that will be necessary for you, though.
You’ll also want to consider the cosmetic skill of the dentist doing the implant. This is especially true if the implant will be on a front tooth. It is more difficult to match a dental crown on a front tooth. You will want the best cosmetic dentist you can find.
This blog is brought to you by Franklin, TN Dentist Dr. Christopher Weber.
