Implants · single question
What advantage do ZIRCONIA implants have over titanium (beyond esthetics)?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Prevent bacterial adherence on the implant surface (lower plaque affinity)
✓ B) Zirconia implants have reduced bacterial adherence/lower plaque affinity.
Zirconia vs. Titanium implants: ZIRCONIA advantages: (1) Better esthetics (white) — especially in thin-tissue biotype; (2) LOWER BACTERIAL ADHERENCE — smoother surface chemistry reduces plaque accumulation; (3) Superior soft tissue response — healthier peri-implant tissues; (4) No metal corrosion; (5) Better biocompatibility in metal-sensitive patients. TITANIUM advantages: (1) Superior long-term osseointegration data; (2) More flexible (less brittle — can take bending forces); (3) More treatment options (angulated abutments); (4) Lower cost; (5) More research. Zirconia is more brittle and should not be used in unfavorable force directions.
Zirconia vs. Titanium implants: ZIRCONIA advantages: (1) Better esthetics (white) — especially in thin-tissue biotype; (2) LOWER BACTERIAL ADHERENCE — smoother surface chemistry reduces plaque accumulation; (3) Superior soft tissue response — healthier peri-implant tissues; (4) No metal corrosion; (5) Better biocompatibility in metal-sensitive patients. TITANIUM advantages: (1) Superior long-term osseointegration data; (2) More flexible (less brittle — can take bending forces); (3) More treatment options (angulated abutments); (4) Lower cost; (5) More research. Zirconia is more brittle and should not be used in unfavorable force directions.