What Materials Are Used in Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become the gold standard in tooth replacement-offering long-lasting, natural-looking results for people who have lost one or more teeth. But have you ever wondered what dental implants are actually made of? Understanding the materials used in dental implants can help you feel more confident and informed when considering this treatment.

In this post, we’ll break down the key components of a dental implant and the materials commonly used in each part.

The 3 Main Parts of a Dental Implant

A typical dental implant consists of three key components, each made from specific materials designed for strength, durability, and biocompatibility:

1.     Implant Fixture (Post) – Inserted into the jawbone, this acts as the artificial tooth root.

2.     Abutment – Connects the implant post to the crown.

3.     Crown (Tooth Restoration) – The visible part that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Let’s take a closer look at the materials used in each of these parts.

1. Implant Fixture Materials (The Post)

This is the foundational part of the implant placed into the jawbone. It must be strong and able to integrate with bone tissue — a process called osseointegration.

Titanium

• Most common material used
• Lightweight, strong, and highly biocompatible
• Has been used successfully in medicine and dentistry for decades
• Typically made from pure titanium or titanium alloy (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V)

Zirconia (Ceramic Implants)

• Metal-free alternative to titanium
• Ideal for patients with metal allergies or preferences for non-metal restorations
• Tooth-colored, making it more aesthetically appealing in some cases
• Slightly less flexible than titanium, so not always suitable for every case

2. Abutment Materials

The abutment connects the implant fixture to the crown. It’s visible above the gum line and must also be strong and biocompatible.

Titanium

• Durable and widely used for its strength
• Often used when aesthetics are not a major concern (e.g., back teeth)

Zirconia

• Chosen for its natural tooth color
• Preferred in front teeth or highly visible areas for aesthetic reasons

3. Crown Materials (Artificial Tooth)

The crown is the visible portion of the dental implant. It must mimic the look and function of a natural tooth.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)

• Strong metal base with a porcelain overlay
• Offers strength and decent aesthetics
• Not as natural-looking as full ceramic crowns

All-Ceramic / All-Porcelain

• Excellent aesthetics; closely mimics natural tooth appearance
• Often used for front teeth
• Less durable than metal-based crowns, but improving with modern materials

Zirconia

• Stronger than porcelain and nearly as aesthetic
• Becoming a popular choice for both front and back teeth
• Resistant to chipping and fracture

Why Material Choice Matters

Choosing the right materials for your dental implant isn’t just about looks — it impacts your:

• Comfort
• Durability
• Healing time
• Allergy or sensitivity risks
• Overall success of the implant

Your dentist will assess your oral health, bone structure, bite, and aesthetic needs to recommend the best combination of materials for your individual case.

Need Advice on Dental Implants?

we offer personalised implant treatment using the most advanced and trusted materials in modern dentistry. Whether you’re exploring titanium or metal-free options, our Forster dental implant specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.