Stefan Holst: Metal-free implants for high-end esthetics

Dr. Holst explores the benefits of zirconia implants and reflects on what we have learned about them over the years. He shows that success comes down to careful processing and the best materials: zirconia powder of the correct particle size subjected to refined compression and sintering. It is important to remember that zirconia is not titanium, and designs for zirconium implants cannot simply be copied from titanium implants. 
In the past, various zirconia compositions have been used for dental implants; however, alumina-toughened zirconia is a new and improved option with excellent mechanical properties.  The new NobelPearl™ implant is manufactured from fully sintered alumina-toughened zirconia, and offers optimal osseointegration with improved soft tissue response. Previously, problems at the implant abutment interface limited the suitability of zirconia implants for all patients. The new NobelPearl™ is fabricated as a two-piece implant utilizing a zirconia abutment with a carbon fiber reinforced PEEK screw, which means that you can now offer a zirconia implant to patients that prefer an alternative to a titanium implant.