What are dental implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. It is the closest modern dentistry comes to replicating a natural tooth: the implant integrates with the bone, provides stable support, and preserves the bone structure that would otherwise deteriorate after tooth loss.
At ndu Clinic, we exclusively use ceramic (zirconia) implants rather than titanium. This reflects our commitment to biocompatible, metal-free dentistry.
Why do we choose ceramic over titanium?
While titanium implants have a long track record, they introduce metal into the body. For patients who prioritise biocompatibility, or who have known metal sensitivities, this can be a concern. Ceramic implants made from zirconia offer an alternative that is:
- Completely metal-free: no corrosion, no galvanic currents, no metal ions released into surrounding tissue
- Biocompatible: zirconia is well-tolerated by bone and soft tissue, with a low inflammatory potential
- Aesthetic: the white colour of zirconia means there is no grey shadowing through the gum line, which can occur with titanium
- Durable: zirconia is one of the strongest ceramic materials available, with excellent long-term stability
Why Swiss Dental Solutions (SDS)?
We use implants from Swiss Dental Solutions (SDS), one of the world's leading manufacturers of ceramic dental implants. SDS implants are manufactured in Switzerland from high-purity yttria-stabilised zirconia and are designed for reliable osseointegration (bone fusion). Their product range allows us to select the right implant size and configuration for each patient's anatomy.
How does the implant process work?
The implant journey at ndu Clinic typically follows these stages:
- Consultation and assessment: We carry out a thorough examination including 3D cone-beam CT scanning to evaluate bone density, volume, and anatomy. We discuss your health history, expectations, and options.
- Treatment planning: Using the 3D scan data, we plan the precise implant position for optimal function and aesthetics.
- Implant placement: The ceramic implant is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anaesthesia. The procedure is typically well-tolerated.
- Healing (osseointegration): Over several months, the jawbone integrates with the zirconia implant surface, creating a stable foundation.
- Crown placement: Once integration is confirmed, a custom ceramic crown is attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
- Preserve bone: implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that occurs after tooth extraction
- Protect adjacent teeth: unlike bridges, implants do not require neighbouring teeth to be ground down
- Improve nutrition and digestion: by restoring chewing function, implants support proper food breakdown
- Long-term value: while the initial investment is higher, implants are designed as a permanent solution that does not require ongoing replacement
How do I care for dental implants?
Ceramic implants require the same care as natural teeth: regular brushing, flossing, and professional hygiene appointments. They do not decay, but the surrounding gum tissue needs to be kept healthy. Our dental hygiene team will provide specific guidance tailored to your implant placement.