I Am Allergic to Titanium Can I Get Dental Implants?

Dentistry has evolved tremendously in the past decades and a missing tooth isn't that much of a problem anymore. There are many treatment options that can help patients with missing teeth regain their smiles and confidence. 

But, what if you have a titanium allergy? Can you still get a dental implant if you have a sensitivity to this metal alloy? 

Let's find out! 

What Are the Symptoms of Titanium Allergy? 

Titanium is commonly used in medical and dental treatments due to its biocompatibility. Not only because this metal alloy doesn't disrupt the normal functions of the tissue surrounding it, but also because bone cells easily grow and attach to it, making osseointegration possible. 

Titanium is also preferred because it generally doesn’t create any reactions in the body. That said, it doesn't mean that titanium dental implants work for everyone. It's estimated that about 0.6% of the population has a titanium allergy or hypersensitivity to this metal. 

The symptoms of titanium allergies include: 

• Rashes
• Inflammation of the gums around the implant
• The implant gets loose or fails altogether
• The implant site doesn't heal properly
• Chronic fatigue and joint pain
  

If you are not sure whether you have a titanium allergy, your dentist in Montebello can run an allergy test called MELISA - short for Memory Lymphocyte Immunostimulation Assay. They will take a small sample of your blood and expose it to titanium to see if there are any signs of an allergic reaction. 

What Other Options Do You Have

Finding out that you indeed have a titanium allergy can be demotivating. Luckily, there are other options and the dentists at Whittier Palm Dental will help you find the best treatment plan for your needs. 

For example, zirconia dental implants have been shown to be a good alternative to titanium. Your dentist will explain the pros and cons of zirconia dental implants and help you decide if this option is right for you. 

If an implant is not the right solution anymore, then you could use bridges to cover missing teeth. A bridge features one or more artificial teeth supported by the teeth on each side of the gap. 

Partial dentures are also a good solution if you have one or more missing teeth. 
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We Can Help You Restore Your Smile

Don't despair if you are not a good candidate for dental implants. Together we will find the best solution for restoring your smile, whether it's a zirconia dental implant, bridges, dentures, or something else. The team at Whittier Palm Dental is dedicated to helping its patients get a beautiful and healthy smile and we will work relentlessly to make that happen. 

Dr. Winslow uses the most advanced techniques and technology available so you can rest assured that you will get the best treatment in the Montebello, Whittier, and Pico Rivera areas. 
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Contact us online to book your appointment or call us at (323) 721-7153.