I need to get dental implants, but have pretty severe metal allergies. I’m allergic to nickel, cobalt, and mercury. Is it even possible for me to get dental implants or do I need to look for other options?
Carl
Dear Carl,

You have a couple of options here. Nickel and cobalt are among the more common dental allergies. Mercury is less common. However, traditional dental implants are made of titanium which are highly biocompatible. They’ve been used for years in procedures, including hip replacements. It’s highly unlikely you have an allergy to titanium. Though, if the idea worries you there is an allergy test you can have to see.
There is also a non-metal dental implant that is being used. It’s a new option and doesn’t have the evidence of longevity that the titanium implants do. They’re called zirconia implants. It is an option for you if you’re allergic to titanium. You should be aware that not many dentists use this option yet, but you can find them.
Make sure whatever dentist you choose has post-doctoral training and a lot of experience in placing dental implants. It is an advanced procedure. You don’t want someone without adequate training and “practice” placing them. Make sure they have at least a 98% success rate.
Your implant crown can be made to match your teeth perfectly. Just be aware whatever color you have it made will be permanent. Even if you were to choose to have teeth whitening done later, your natural teeth would whiten, but not your dental crown.
If you are even considering brightening the color of your teeth, you should do it before you have your implant crown made. If it is for a front tooth, it is imperative you have an expert cosmetic dentist make it. My suggestion would be to have an AACD accredited dentist do it.
This blog is brought to you by Hilton Head Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bonnie Rothwell.