Metal-Free Dental Implants
Zirconia Dental Implants
in Beverly Hills
Biocompatible, tooth-colored implants from a holistic dental practice with over 40 years in Beverly Hills.
Book Your Zirconia Implant ConsultationWhat Are Zirconia Dental Implants?
Smile Angels of Beverly Hills offers zirconia (ceramic) dental implants, a metal-free alternative to titanium. Treatment is planned and placed by Dr. Bruce Vafa, DDS, MS, with 3D imaging and IV sedation available at our office at 9025 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 450.
A zirconia implant is made from zirconium dioxide, a white ceramic, instead of titanium metal. Like any implant, it replaces the root of a missing tooth and supports a crown on top. It contains no metal, so there is nothing gray to show through thin gums, which makes it a common choice in holistic and biological dentistry.
Who Are Zirconia Implants Right For?
Zirconia implants are often a good fit for patients who:
- Want a completely metal-free mouth, often alongside safe mercury filling removal
- Have a known or suspected sensitivity to metals
- Are replacing a front tooth with thin gums, where titanium could show a gray shadow
- Prefer a holistic, biocompatible approach to their dental care
They are not right for every case. Patients who grind heavily, need very long or narrow implants, or need certain full-arch designs may be better served by titanium. Dr. Vafa reviews your 3D scan and bite before recommending either material.
Zirconia vs. Titanium Implants
| Zirconia | Titanium | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Ceramic (zirconium dioxide), metal-free | Titanium alloy |
| Color | White, no gray show-through | Gray metal, can show through thin gums |
| Gum response | Low plaque buildup around the implant | Well established and healthy with good care |
| Track record | In use for over 15 years, with growing research | In use for decades, the most studied option |
| Design options | Fewer sizes and designs | Widest range of sizes and designs |
| Best suited for | Metal-free preference, metal sensitivity, front teeth | Most cases, including complex full arch |
Both are proven ways to replace missing teeth. The right choice depends on your health goals, bone, bite, and the tooth being replaced. See our dental implants page for titanium options and All-on-4 full arch implants.
How the Process Works
- Consultation and 3D scan. Dr. Vafa examines your mouth, reviews your health history, and takes 3D imaging to measure the bone.
- Preparation, if needed. A tooth extraction or bone graft may come first.
- Implant placement. The implant is placed under local anesthesia, with nitrous oxide, oral, or IV sedation available.
- Healing. The implant bonds with the jawbone over about 3 to 6 months. A temporary tooth can be worn in the meantime.
- Final crown. A custom porcelain or zirconia crown is placed, shade-matched to your natural teeth.
How Much Do Zirconia Implants Cost?
Zirconia implants typically cost somewhat more than titanium because of the material and the precision involved. Your fee depends on the number of teeth, whether you need an extraction or bone graft, and the type of crown. You receive your exact fee in writing at your consultation, before any treatment begins.
Smile Angels is in network with Delta Dental PPO and Delta Dental Premier, works with most other PPO plans, and offers payment plans.
"A radiant smile is the bridge between aesthetic beauty and total body health."
Dr. Bruce Vafa, DDS, MS.
Dr. Vafa has practiced dentistry for over 40 years and holds a Master of Science in Orofacial Pain and Oral Medicine from USC. He is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT), and the practice offers metal-free, biocompatible care from fillings to implants, with an in-house periodontist, Dr. Sam Gilani, DMD, MS, and a dental anesthesiologist, Dr. David Khandabi, MD, for IV sedation.
Zirconia Implant Questions
Are zirconia implants as strong as titanium?
Modern zirconia is very strong and handles normal chewing well. Titanium is more flexible and has more design options, so it can be the better choice for patients who grind heavily or need complex full-arch work. Dr. Vafa recommends the material that fits your case.
Are zirconia implants completely metal-free?
Yes. Zirconia implants are made of ceramic and contain no metal. Paired with a porcelain or zirconia crown, the entire restoration is metal-free.
How long do zirconia implants last?
With good home care and regular checkups, zirconia implants are designed to last for many years, like titanium implants. Long-term studies on titanium go back further, while research on zirconia continues to grow.
Can a titanium implant be replaced with zirconia?
Often, yes. Some patients replace a failing or unwanted titanium implant with zirconia. This depends on the bone at the site, which Dr. Vafa evaluates with a 3D scan.
Does insurance cover zirconia implants?
Coverage varies by plan. Many dental plans cover part of an implant regardless of material. Our team checks your benefits before treatment and explains what your plan is expected to pay.
Considering a Metal-Free Implant?
Meet with Dr. Vafa to find out whether zirconia is right for you.
Book Your Zirconia Implant Consultation Call (310) 201-9001Smile Angels of Beverly Hills, Bruce Vafa DDS
9025 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 450, Beverly Hills, CA 90211