I’ve got a titanium dental implant. Though I’m completely thrilled with it, my sister-in-law said that new studies show that metal dental work can cause neurological problems. Should I switch to the CeraRoot Zirconia implant?

Amelia L.

Dear Amelia,

The only thing I can possibly think of which your sister-in-law could be referring to is amalgam fillings. Those are made up mostly of mercury which is a known toxin. There have been more studies showing they do have some affects on the body, though the American Dental Association (ADA) still reports them as safe. But, understandably, many patients are uncomfortable with the idea of putting mercury in their body. That’s why a growing number of dentists are mercury-free dentists.

Metals, in general, aren’t unsafe in your body. In fact, our body needs certain metals like zinc and iron in order to function properly. Without them, you could die. There are no studies showing that titanium dental implants are unsafe.

Dental Implants are Safe

On the contrary, titanium has been used in the body for decades with no adverse effects. If you’ve ever seen the movie Philomena, starring Dame Judi Dench, you’ll know she bragged about having a titanium hip. They’re not only safe. They’re strong. They’re also one of the most biocompatible materials used in human implants and bone replacements.

If I were getting an implant, I’d get the titanium ones. Zirconia is likely fine, but hasn’t been used as long. On the other hand, titanium dental implants are time-tested.

If you were to replace your current implants with the zirconia brand, it would require removing the current implants, bone grafting because of the lost bone structure in the removal process, then an additional surgery. I’m not sure you’d want to put yourself through that without a good deal of evidence it benefits you in some way.

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