I need to get a tooth replaced. I heard dental implants were the best option but my dentist only does titanium implants. I read on a natural news site that there is evidence the metal implants cause neurological problems because it is adding metal into our body close to our brain. Is there a way to convince my dentist to let me have the zirconia ones?

Monica,

Hi Monica,

While you are correct that dental implants are the best tooth replacement, I’m skeptical about the news site you were reading. I have a strong feeling they didn’t show any documentation to back up their claims. I know of no studies that show any negative neurological impact due to titanium implants. In fact, there is a great deal of documentation showing quite the opposite. Decades of research have shown titanium to be biocompatible.

If you think about it our bodies already have metal in them. One that readily comes to mind is iron. Without the proper amount of iron in your body, you can die. So, metal isn’t the problem. Of course, that depends on the metal.

I’m not telling you not to get zirconia implants. They’re fine too. In fact, if worrying about the titanium will be an issue for you, it may be better for you to get the zirconia ones just for your peace of mind. However, I don’t want you to have false fear because of one internet site that drums up its number of visits by fear mongering to patients who have no way to verify the claims.

If you absolutely want the zirconia, there are plenty of dentists out there who do them. You may want to start by looking for a mercury-free or metal-free dentist. You could also look for dentists who offer zirconia crowns because they obviously will already be familiar with the materials.

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