Which implant system does 21D use and, more importantly, why do we use it?
We use an implant system manufactured in Italy called Fixo. This implant system in our view is the most optimal for our fully digital fully guided solution. It is a one piece implant (we will explain shortly why this is important) and it is made from medical grade 4 titanium. The vast majority of dental implants used globally are made from medical grade titanium. There are implants that are made from zirconia but they have not been used as long as titanium and there is no evidence to suggest it is better than titanium and a lot of evidence to suggest that it is worse.
So we stick to tried and tested over 50 years, which is medical grade titanium. The most common grades of titanium used for dental implants globally is grade 4 and grade 5. Both are great. In the UK, we are a regulated profession and as such we are mandated to use CE certified medical grade implants. CE certification guarantees that the implants have been produced to a standard that is suitable for implantation into a human being long-term. All our implants are CE certified. In North America FDA certification is what is required and it is not too dissimilar to what is required for CE certification.
Why do we use a one piece dental implant?
The majority of dental implants globally consist of two distinct parts: the implant itself, which features a hollow interface at the top, and the abutment, which is inserted into this interface and secured with a screw. This procedure is typically performed by a dentist after the implant is placed in the jawbone at or just below bone level. The final restoration—be it a crown, a bridge, or a full-jaw prosthetic—is then attached to the abutment.
One-piece implants are constructed from a single continuous piece of titanium without a screw connection, eliminating the separation between the implant and abutment. A notable complication of two-piece implants is that the mechanical load from chewing can gradually loosen the screw that connects the abutment to the implant. This can create micro-movements at the bone level, forming a mini pump effect that draws bacteria to the bone, potentially leading to infection and long-term implant failure. This issue is particularly acknowledged by clinicians with extensive experience in implant dentistry.
One-piece implants, however, are designed to prevent such complications. Since there is no joint or screw, the risk of bacterial infection at the bone level is significantly reduced, enhancing the longevity of the implant. At 21D, we prioritise the use of one-piece implants for their superior long-term outcomes. Our surgical guides are meticulously crafted to support the precise placement of one-piece implants. Unlike many clinics that either do not use surgical guides or use them with less precision, our process ensures optimal alignment and integration of the implants.
While one-piece implants are not suitable for single-tooth corrections, which are better served by two-piece implants, they are ideal for full-mouth restorations. At 21D, we focus exclusively in fully guided full-mouth implants, leveraging the benefits of one-piece implant technology to ensure the best long-term results for our patients. Our surgical guides and implants are specifically designed to work in harmony, providing a streamlined and effective treatment process.
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