In the latest episode of Just Ask [LIVE], Dr. Michael Payer, Vice Chair of the Department of Oral Surgery and Orthodontics at the Medical University of Graz, Austria, delved into the topic of ceramic implants in implantology. This live discussion focused on the advancements and scientific insights surrounding ceramic implants, particularly zirconia, and explored its benefits and challenges in clinical practice.
Dr. Payer provided a historical overview of ceramic implants, tracing their origins back to the mid-1960s with alumina-based implants, which were eventually discontinued due to high fracture rates. Today, zirconia is the material of choice, known for its strong mechanical properties and potential for osseointegration, the process where the implant integrates with the bone. While earlier zirconia implants faced challenges with surface roughness and fracture risks, modern techniques and surface treatments have significantly improved their performance, offering comparable osseointegration times to titanium implants.
Dr. Payer discussed how zirconia's use in implant dentistry has grown, with over 30% market penetration for crowns and bridges, although ceramic implants in the form of abutments and implants still represent a small fraction of the market. He addressed the key concerns around these implants, such as the risk of fractures, surface aging, and their performance in complex cases like peri-implantitis and sinus lifts. Notably, ceramic implants showed promising outcomes in managing peri-implantitis, with some cases of reattachment of bone tissue around the implant.
Despite these encouraging signs, Dr. Payer emphasized that much of the field is still in the early stages, with limited scientific data and long-term studies. He encouraged more research into the predictability and efficacy of two-piece ceramic implants and their performance in more complex clinical scenarios.
For patients, the appeal of ceramic implants lies in their metal-free nature, making them an attractive option for those seeking a biocompatible solution. Although clinical experience with ceramic implants continues to grow, Dr. Payer noted that more evidence is needed to fully establish their long-term success and reliability.
As the field evolves, both practitioners and patients are closely watching the developments in ceramic implant technology, eager for further breakthroughs that may make these implants a standard choice in dental practices worldwide.