Zirconia implants can be ideal for people who have thinner gingival tissues, and they may be a good solution for people who wish to have a metal-free dental implant. Also, it is extremely rare for people to have allergies to titanium dental implants. However, some people may be sensitive to other metals present in the alloy and could have concerns about having any type of metal in their bodies. The natural white color of zirconia is aesthetically appealing, and zirconia implants can help preserve the bone and promote better gingival health. The gum tissue around ceramic materials tends to be healthier, largely because zirconia is inert and doesn’t corrode. One study assessing Straumann ceramic implants in animals found a reduced pocket depth and higher soft tissue attachment compared to an ordinary titanium implant.

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The first zirconia dental implants were a one-piece design that, although hygienic and good for soft tissue health, meant they could not heal underneath the gums. The one-piece design could create problems if chair-side adjustments were required. While zirconia is a very strong material when subjected to compressive forces, its elasticity is quite low. If adjustment is needed, this could lead to the formation of micro-cracks that may ultimately cause the failure of the dental implant. Where a small diameter implant is used, low elasticity might cause problems as the possibility of the implant fracturing may increase. Top implant manufacturers have designed and produced implants to mitigate these risks using high-performance zirconia (Y-TZP). Two-piece zirconia dental implants are now available, making it easier for these dental implants to be left undisturbed while osseointegration is completed. This also allows abutments to be customized, all without compromising the strength of the implant.