At Arkansas Oral & Facial Surgery Center, Dr. Minkin and our professional staff are proud to offer this cutting edge treatment using NobelPearl™ to patients both in and around Springdale, Bentonville and Fayetteville, AR.  If you are seeking treatment from elsewhere, we also offer ceramic dental implants as a destination treatment for patients who don’t have convenient access to this type of treatment nearby. Our friendly staff can provide recommendations for nearby accommodations to assist in making your visit for treatment as pleasant as possible.

Why We Offer Ceramic Dental Implants

One of the most significant advantages of ceramic implants is their superior aesthetic appeal. Zirconia is naturally white, closely mimicking the color of natural teeth, which makes it ideal for patients concerned about the visible metallic hue of titanium implants, especially in cases of thin or receding gums. Unlike titanium, which can sometimes show a grayish tint through the gum tissue, ceramic implants blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth and gums, providing a more natural and visually pleasing result. This is particularly important for implants in the anterior (front) region of the mouth, where aesthetics are a priority.

Biocompatibility is another key reason ceramic implants are considered. Zirconia is a bioinert material, meaning it does not trigger immune responses or allergic reactions in the body. While titanium is generally well-tolerated, a small percentage of patients may experience sensitivities or allergies to metal, which can lead to inflammation or complications. Ceramic implants eliminate this risk, making them an excellent option for patients with metal sensitivities or those seeking a metal-free dental solution. Additionally, zirconia’s smooth, non-porous surface discourages bacterial adhesion, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and peri-implantitis, a common inflammatory condition around dental implants that can lead to bone loss and implant failure.

Ceramic implants also demonstrate excellent integration with bone, a process known as osseointegration. Studies have shown that zirconia implants achieve comparable, if not superior, bone-to-implant contact compared to titanium. This strong integration ensures stability and longevity, critical for the success of dental implants. Furthermore, zirconia’s resistance to corrosion and degradation ensures that the implant remains stable over time, even in the moist, acidic environment of the mouth. Titanium, while durable, can sometimes corrode slightly, potentially releasing trace amounts of metal ions into surrounding tissues, which may concern some patients.

Another advantage of ceramic implants is their holistic appeal. As patients increasingly prioritize natural and biocompatible materials, zirconia aligns with the growing demand for minimally invasive and body-friendly dental solutions. Ceramic implants are free from metal, appealing to those who prefer a more “natural” approach to dental care or have concerns about long-term exposure to metals. This aligns with broader trends in healthcare toward materials that work harmoniously with the body’s natural systems.

Ceramic implants also offer practical benefits during the surgical and restorative phases. Their one-piece design, combining the implant and abutment, simplifies the procedure by reducing the number of components and potential points of failure. This streamlined design can also minimize the risk of bacterial infiltration at the implant-abutment interface, a common issue with two-piece titanium implants. Additionally, advancements in zirconia manufacturing have improved the material’s strength and fracture resistance, addressing early concerns about ceramic implants’ durability. Modern zirconia implants are engineered to withstand the chewing forces in the mouth, making them suitable for both anterior and posterior teeth.

What Our Patients Say:

Scott B. – 
“Everybody at this facility is absolutely amazing. I had to have a tooth extracted, and they worked me in the day after I called. Dr. Minken did a fantastic job under local anesthesia, and I had no pain. Afterward, everyone in the facility was super chill, and I will absolutely go back if I need any other work done!“

Mónica B. – 
“Called multiple times after getting my wisdom tooth removed and the staff was excellent and patient. Dr. Minkin make sure all my questions were answered before surgery.“

Jennifer C. – 
“I would definitely recommend Dr. Minkin and his staff. They were always kind and courteous! His nurse,Winona, was the best! So kind, helpful and very caring during a traumatic injury! Thanks for taking great care of me!”

Dennis S. – 
“I highly recommend Dr Minkin. I needed an extraction and the whole process went better than I ever could have expected. Dr Minkin and the staff there are so pleasant and professional. I can’t thank them enough.”