Implants · single question
What is the advantage of placing ANTERIOR ZIRCONIA implants compared to titanium implants for an esthetics-conscious patient?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Less corrosion
✓ A) Less corrosion (and better esthetics — white color) is correct.
Zirconia implants (yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals/Y-TZP) offer: white/tooth-colored appearance (critical in thin-tissue biotype patients where titanium gray may show through), no metal corrosion, good biocompatibility, and lower plaque affinity. Titanium has superior long-term osseointegration data. Zirconia's strength is generally adequate but titanium has more clinical evidence. The primary esthetic advantage is the white color preventing gray discoloration of peri-implant tissue.
Zirconia implants (yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals/Y-TZP) offer: white/tooth-colored appearance (critical in thin-tissue biotype patients where titanium gray may show through), no metal corrosion, good biocompatibility, and lower plaque affinity. Titanium has superior long-term osseointegration data. Zirconia's strength is generally adequate but titanium has more clinical evidence. The primary esthetic advantage is the white color preventing gray discoloration of peri-implant tissue.