Titanium implants
Titanium – the most experienced material
Implants made of titanium have the longest long-term experience and their success rate has been well documented in a myriad of studies. Thus, titanium remains the gold standard in implantology and is suitable for almost any indication.
It has a good bio-compatibility meaning its compatibility with the body, and is accepted without showing any repulsive reaction. The secret of this good bio-compatibility lies in one of the characteristics of titanium – where the metal titanium gets in contact with oxygen it forms a protective layer of titanium oxide within milliseconds – strictly speaking a ceramic. This “passivation layer” prevents a chemical exchange of the metal and the tissue.
Nevertheless, according to latest studies titanium can also be subject to corrosive operations (bio-corrosion), which may lead to particles of titanium being set free. In combination with bacteria, those kinds of particles can lead to inflammation (Periimplantatis). There also seem to be patients reacting to those kinds of particles with a “titanium intolerance” in the form of a extreme reaction to foreign matter, even though allergic reactions can be ruled out. A titanium stimulation test beforehand a implantation can give an answer to this question.
An advantage to ceramics is a long experience and a widespread product spectrum, especially for further supply with dentures.
