Zirconia Implants
Ceramic Implants / Implant Materials Disclaimer
Something small enough to escape casual notice.
IMPORTANT: Educational Information Only; Not Diagnosis or Treatment.
Content addressing the topics below is provided for general educational discussion only. It is not medical or dental advice, does not diagnose any condition, and does not recommend any treatment for any individual. You must not rely on this content to make healthcare decisions. Diagnosis and treatment decisions require an in-person evaluation, appropriate records, and a clinician’s professional judgment based on your specific facts.
No guarantees; outcomes vary. Any discussion of potential benefits, risks, timelines, or outcomes is general and not a promise, guarantee, or prediction for any individual.
No definitive causation claims. Where mechanisms, systemic effects, or cause-and-effect relationships are discussed, they may reflect hypotheses, evolving evidence, clinical experience, or differing views within the broader community; they are not statements of universal fact for every patient.
Implant material selection is individualized. Any discussion of ceramic/zirconia implants, titanium/metal implants, metal sensitivity/biocompatibility, corrosion, galvanic effects, inflammation, “toxicity,” or systemic effects is educational only. Implant material and design selection depends on patient-specific factors (including bone volume/quality, occlusion, medical history, risk profile, and restorative plan) and must be determined through an in-person evaluation.
No guarantee of biocompatibility or outcomes. No implant material—ceramic or metal—can be guaranteed to be “non-reactive,” “non-toxic,” complication-free, or suitable for every person. All implants carry risks and benefits that vary by patient.
Comparisons are not promises. Any comparisons between materials (including statements about advantages, longevity, immune response, corrosion, esthetics, or peri-implant tissue behavior) are not guarantees and should not be interpreted as claims of superior outcomes for any individual.
Zirconia dental implants are metal-free, allergy-free, white ceramic implants considered ideal health-focused alternatives to titanium metal implants. Considered the most premium, health-focused permanent tooth replacement solution available, zirconia implants are made from zirconium dioxide—a strong, biocompatible, metal-free ceramic material that blends seamlessly within the jawbone to resemble real teeth in form and function. Zirconia implants can avoid inflammatory reactions associated with conventional metal dental implants such as potential allergic responses and reactions—specifically because they avoid metal particle corrosion, galvanization, and systemic host-response reactions. With high success rates of over 97% over 15 years, FDA approval, and with different zirconia implant types, patients can select treatment for single root canal replacement, full-arch zirconia implants, and the ideal use of the zirconia implant for front tooth implants: available in one-piece and two-piece to find the best option to support long-term oral health, longevity, by avoiding metal implants.
What Is A Zirconia Implant
Zirconia dental implants, also known as ceramic dental implants, are metal-free dental implants that are considered 100% biocompatible, ideal for front tooth implants, and a fast-growing alternative to traditional titanium implants.
A zirconia dental implant is a metal-free dental implant made from a high-strength ceramic called zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). It is placed into the jawbone to replace an extracted tooth or a missing tooth and can support a single crown, a dental bridge (several crowns on several zirconia implants), or full-arch zirconia implant All-on-X cases. Generally considered a premium dental implant compared to older traditional metal implants, they are more expensive than metal implants and are manufactured mostly in Europe (Switzerland and Spain).
Zirconia implants are also referred to as ceramic dental implants and are used in both single-tooth and full-mouth implant dentistry, also known as All-on-X. They have been FDA-approved in the United States since 2007 (nearly 20 years) and are most commonly chosen for their metal-free composition, tooth-colored appearance, and compatibility with biological dentistry principles.
Studies show high success rates and predictability, with a 15-year study showing nearly a 97.6% survival rate for over 1,000 zirconia implants studied. They are used exclusively by Dr. May, one of the best biological dentists in the USA, and widely recognized as one of the best zirconia implant dentists worldwide. Dr. May teaches, lectures, and authors publications about zirconia dental implants.
ZIRCONIA IMPLANT ADVANTAGES
Zirconia implants offer several strong advantages over titanium implants, including:
- Metal-free Material: Zirconia implants used by Dr. May are 100% metal-free, with virtually no chance for allergic or inflammatory responses in hypersensitive individuals, the only options for patients with metal allergies or those who prefer a metal-free solution.
- Highly Esthetic, Tooth-Like: Zirconia implants are white and beautiful and look similar to real tooth structure, providing a more natural-looking result, especially for patients with thin or receding gums or anyone needing a front tooth implant.
- Biocompatibility: Zirconia implants are biocompatible; they are also bio-inert, meaning zirconia implants do not cause negative reactions with your body, unlike titanium metal implants that can cause allergic reactions and inflammation, both local and systemic.
- Superior gingival health: One-piece zirconia implants are considered much more “tissue friendly” for several reasons.
- Less gingival inflammation: Because of the reduced biofilm and plaque accumulation on the surface of the zirconia implant, metal-free implants are observed to have less gingival inflammation, and the gum looks very pink and healthy, making them ideal for esthetics and health.
- Less plaque and biofilm: Less biofilm accumulation on the zirconia material compared to titanium implants. Biofilm is bacteria building up around the implant that, unless removed properly, can cause inflammation, such as peri-mucositis and peri-implantitis, known inflammatory responses around titanium implants.
- Superior gingival attachment to implant: In fact, sometimes gums grow over the ceramic implant, since zirconia implants can have epithelial cell attachment while titanium implants cannot attach to the metal implant surface, creating a microgap and higher bacterial intrusion.
- Reduced bacterial implant junction accumulation/infiltration (No implant-abutment junction in one-piece zirconia implants): In a one-piece zirconia implant design. There is no prosthetic connections, which means there is no connection point to create micro-gaps and crevices, which can help prevent bacterial growth and reduce long-term inflammatory effects due to no bacterial infiltration at the abutment-implant connection point. Even in two-piece ceramic implants, because the zirconia implant and zirconia abutment are bonded together with cement, it is considered to have less micro-gap infiltration than traditional titanium implants, which are screw-retained.
- No Galvanic Reactions: Zirconia dental implants do not conduct electricity and do not cause galvanization like metal dental implants, which conduct electric currents and may disturb the bodies’ natural electrical flow through meridians.
- No Corrosion/No Metal Degradation: Zirconia dental implants do not corrode and do not release metal particles and metal ions the way that titanium alloy implants corrode, which means reduced peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant) and reduced systemic metal particle release reactions.
Types of Zirconia Implants
Zirconia implants are usually 100% metal-free; however, there are some manufacturers of titanium implants that have entered the US market that have created hybrid metal-zirconia dental implants, which are not recommended by Dr. May, a leading zirconia implant dentist and authority on zirconia implants. Patients must be very careful to understand the SPECIFIC type of zirconia implants the conventional dentist, oral surgeon, or periodontist will use in their surgical placement. Biological dentist almost exclusively use only 100% metal-free zirconia implant types, and refuse to use any zirconia implant brands that include metal componets.
This zirconia implant article examines FDA-approved zirconia dental implant types available in the US:
- One-Piece Zirconia Implants
- Two-Piece Zirconia Implants
- Cementable
- Three-Piece Zirconia Implants (Screw Retained)
- Carbon Fiber Screw (Nobel Pearl)
- Metal Screw (Straumann)
- Tissue Level vs. Bone Level Implants
- Round vs Oval Shapes
Types of Zirconia Dental Implants
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Zirconia Implants
Unlike titanium metal implants, which are used by 99% of dentists in the USA and are only available as three-piece dental implants requiring several components for surgical placement in the jaw, ceramic implants, particularly the one-piece zirconia implant version, consist of a single connected part—the implant and abutment together.
This design offers significant benefits over the three-piece titanium implant, which has a metal implant body, a metal screw, and a metal abutment.
Tissue vs. Bone Level Implants
Tissue Level vs Bone Level Zirconia Implants
Another classification of zirconia implants is based on their placement level: tissue level or bone level.
While nearly all titanium implants are bone level, most zirconia dental implants are tissue level, which also has its advantages that will be discussed in detail.
Within the two-piece zirconia implant category, various brands and models feature different connection types between the implant and the abutment, which will be explored below.
FINDING a Zirconia Implant Dentist Near ME
WHO places zirconia Implants?
Surgical Biological Dentists Only
The few dentists in the US who place zirconia implants in their practice are surgically trained biological dentists, like Dr. May. Unlike titanium metal implants, which are placed by 99% of all dentists in the US, including oral surgeons, periodontists, and general dentists, zirconia implants are placed by less than 1% of dentists. It is not recommended to use a non-zirconia-focused implant dentist who does not practice biological dentistry.
That 1% of surgically trained biological dentist the the US are the only selection for patients who want the best clinical results, and the most correct zirconia implant selected for their case. This will most likely be a biological dentist, although rarely patients may encounter some dental specialists like conventional oral surgeons and conventional periodontists that also place the most “titanium-like” zirconia implant models in conjunction with titanium implants.
Recommended zirconia implant dentist requirement for best results:
It’s very important that you select a true, experienced, and knowledgeable dental zirconia implant expert who has placed at least 500 ceramic implants and also restored them and who only does so with specific protocols such as ozone, PRF, and laser as part of the biological protocol.
Checklist for Zirconia Implant DEntist
Requirements for Selecting a Surgical Biological Dentist for Zirconia Dental Implants:
Credentialed & Vetted Biological Dentist
- IAOMT Accredited
- IABDM Certified
- IAOCI Member
- AAID Fellow or Diplomat
- BGS – Institute of Biological Dentistry Certified
- SDS Ambassador (preferred)
- Tufts University Biological Surgery Wound Healing Surgery Program Dr. Ghanatti (preferred)
- Not sure? Check with Dr. May
Experience with Zirconia Dental Implants
- Has placed and restored at least 500 zirconia implants
- Has experience numbers published on website (legal attestation proof, not phone)
- Has placed more than 3 brands of zirconia implants (less trained dentists typically only place one or a maximum 2 brands)
Before & After Zirconia Implant Portfolio (CRITICAL)
- Must have photo evidence in the photo and x-rays for each patient in portfolio
- Must see at least 25 cases in the before-and-after zirconia implant photo and x-ray portfolio
- Do not trust an office without before and after photos + x-rays showing the following:
- Photo before and x-ray before
- Photo of actual zirconia implants before they are restored (white abutments)
- Photo of final crowns on top of zirconia implants
- Example Here: [IMAGE]
Office Equipment
- Fotona Lightwalker Laser
- Ozone Machine
- Piezo Surgery Machine
- PRF Centrifuges
Ideally also:
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
- Photobiomodulation Therapy (like ATP38, not Fotona)
- Hydrogen Gas Therapy
Avoid Zirconia Implant Dentists Who:
- Also place titanium implants (they are not truly biological or do not truly have expertise in zirconia implants)
- Are more “traditional” titanium implant dentists and are supplementing with zirconia implants
- Do NOT perform their own surgery (have an on-staff periodontist or oral surgeon who comes to the office, or refer out to a specialist for surgery)
- Are specialists who do not restore their own zirconia dental implants
- Have only ever placed one or two brands; an experienced provider has been placing zirconia implants long enough to have placed and worked with at least 4+ different zirconia implant brands in the USA.
WHO places zirconia Implants?
Surgical Biological Dentists Only
The few dentists in the US who place zirconia implants in their practice are surgically trained biological dentists, like Dr. May. Unlike titanium metal implants, which are placed by 99% of all dentists in the US, including oral surgeons, periodontists, and general dentists, zirconia implants are placed by less than 1% of dentists. It is not recommended to use a non-zirconia-focused implant dentist who does not practice biological dentistry.
That 1% of surgically trained biological dentist the the US are the only selection for patients who want the best clinical results, and the most correct zirconia implant selected for their case. This will most likely be a biological dentist, although rarely patients may encounter some dental specialists like conventional oral surgeons and conventional periodontists that also place the most “titanium-like” zirconia implant models in conjunction with titanium implants.
Recommended zirconia implant dentist requirement for best results:
It’s very important that you select a true, experienced, and knowledgeable dental zirconia implant expert who has placed at least 500 ceramic implants and also restored them and who only does so with specific protocols such as ozone, PRF, and laser as part of the biological protocol.
Checklist for Zirconia Implant DEntist
Requirements for Selecting a Surgical Biological Dentist for Zirconia Dental Implants:
This is your guide to selecting the best dentist for zirconia dental implants, who may be closer to your location than Dr. May.
Credentialed & Vetted Biological Dentist
- IAOMT Accredited
- IABDM Certified
- IAOCI Member
- AAID Fellow or Diplomat
- BGS – Institute of Biological Dentistry Certified
- SDS Ambassador (preferred)
- Tufts University Biological Surgery Wound Healing Surgery Program Dr. Ghanatti (preferred)
- Not sure? Check with Dr. May
Surgically Trained Biological Dentist
- Performs Sinus Lifts (vertical + lateral)
- Performs Cavitation Surgery
- Performs Titanium Implant Removal
- Performs GBR (large bone grafting)
- Performs Block Grafting
- Performs Gingival CTG Grafting
- Must perform their own surgery work—do not have another dentist performing surgery inside or outside the office
Experience with Zirconia Dental Implants
- Has placed and restored at least 500 zirconia implants
- Has experience numbers published on website (legal attestation proof, not phone)
- Has placed more than 3 brands of zirconia implants (less trained dentists typically only place one or a maximum 2 brands)
Before & After Zirconia Implant Portfolio (CRITICAL)
- Must have photo evidence in the photo and x-rays for each patient in portfolio
- Must see at least 25 cases in the before-and-after zirconia implant photo and x-ray portfolio
- Do not trust an office without before and after photos + x-rays showing the following:
- Photo before and x-ray before
- Photo of actual zirconia implants before they are restored (white abutments)
- Photo of final crowns on top of zirconia implants
- Example Here: [IMAGE]
Office Equipment
- Fotona Lightwalker Laser
- Ozone Machine
- Piezo Surgery Machine
- PRF Centrifuges
Ideally also:
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
- Photobiomodulation Therapy (like ATP38, not Fotona)
- Hydrogen Gas Therapy
Avoid Zirconia Implant Dentists Who:
Zirconia Dental Implant TYPES
Zirconia dental implants come in several types and variations, from design, size, brand and even material characteristics. The variation in zirconia implants can range from a single connected piece, often considered the ideal and strongest zirconia implant by top zirconia implant dentists like Dr. May, to zirconia implants with up to three separate components, as sometimes seen in metal-titanium implant designs, which are typically 3 pieces.
To better understand the comparison between different zirconia implant types and how they compare to titanium implant types, we will review a diagram showing each piece of the implant for both zirconia and metal implants.
Once the basics of the implant body, abutment, screw-retained abutment, cementable abutment, tissue level, and bone level varieties are clear, we’ll explain the merits and disadvantages of each type of zirconia implant and how it compares to the standard titanium implant models.
We will also review brand types, and which are considered the most ideal variations of zirconia implants as defined by and used in surgery by the best zirconia implant dentists in the US, including Dr. May.
One-Piece Zirconia Implants
The main advantage of a one-piece zirconia implant is the absence of prosthetic connections, meaning there is no “gap space” where the zirconia abutment meets the zirconia implant screw body.
This connection point in two-piece zirconia dental implants is typically where bacteria can grow, making one-piece implants better for long-term gum health.
Generally, this is the only type of zirconia implant used for front tooth ceramic implant cases, which Dr. May has performed 200+ placements of and has a renowned expertise in front tooth zirconia dental implant cases.
Two-Piece Zirconia Implants
Two-piece zirconia implants are used in certain clinical situations where a one-piece zirconia implant are less ideal. For example, 2-piece implants are best used when sinus lifts are needed and integration considerations are more sensitive; the zirconia implant body is placed immediately with a sinus lift, but to prevent any potential movement, an abutment is omitted until the zirconia implant body integrates.
Another variation is a lower molar, where there aren’t surrounding teeth to protect an abutment, or multiple molar zirconia implants are placed in a row. Due to the fact that molars are primary in chewing, a 2-piece zirconia implant design may be beneficial for patient compliance and avoiding movement during healing.
Three-Piece Zirconia Implants
Three-piece zirconia implants feature a screw, a third component that holds the implant body and the implant abutment together.
It’s crucial to note that not all three-piece zirconia implants are metal-free. TAV Dental offers what they refer to as a two-piece zirconia dental implant that is attached by a metal screw.
While the metal screw does not come into direct contact with the bone or tissue, some patients choose not to have this specific model as it is not 100% metal-free.
Other three-piece zirconia dental implants are manufactured by Z-Systems, featuring a zirconia screw and a bone-level implant. This implant type is generally used by conventional oral surgeons and dentists who are accustomed to placing and restoring titanium implants. Another 3-piece design was formerly used by a company called Zeramax, which went out of business, and only one of their designs continues to be manufactured and sold by Nobel, known as the Nobel Pearl 2-piece zirconia implant model, which has a fiber carbon screw holding it together (making it a 3 piece model).
Zirconia Implants - FAQ
What are zirconia implants?
Zirconia implants, also known as ceramic dental implants, are metal-free dental implants that are considered 100% biocompatible, ideal for front tooth implants, and a fast-growing alternative to traditional titanium implants.
A zirconia dental implant is a metal-free dental implant made from a high-strength ceramic called zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). It is placed into the jawbone to replace an extracted tooth or a missing tooth and can support a single crown, a dental bridge (several crowns on several zirconia implants), or full-arch zirconia implant All-on-X cases. Generally considered a premium dental implant to metal implants, they are more expensive than metal implants and are manufactured mostly in Europe (Switzerland and Spain).
Zirconia implants are also referred to as ceramic dental implants and are used in both single-tooth and full-mouth implant dentistry, also known as All-on-X. They have been FDA-approved in the United States since 2007 (nearly 20 years) and are most commonly chosen for their metal-free composition, tooth-colored appearance, and compatibility with biological dentistry principles.
Studies show high success rates and predictability, with a 15-year study showing nearly a 97.6% survival rate for over 1,000 zirconia implants studied. They are used exclusively by Dr. May, one of the best biological dentists in the USA, and widely recognized as one of the best zirconia implant dentists worldwide. Dr. May teaches, lectures, and authors publications about zirconia dental implants.
What are the advantages of zirconia implants over titanium implants?
Zirconia implants offer several strong advantages over titanium implants, including:
- Metal-free Material: Zirconia implants used by Dr. May are 100% metal-free, with virtually no chance for allergic or inflammatory responses in hypersensitive individuals, the only options for patients with metal allergies or those who prefer a metal-free solution.
- Highly Esthetic, Tooth-Like: Zirconia implants are white and beautiful and look similar to real tooth structure, providing a more natural-looking result, especially for patients with thin or receding gums or anyone needing a front tooth implant.
- Biocompatibility: Zirconia implants are biocompatible; they are also bio-inert, meaning zirconia implants do not cause negative reactions with your body, unlike titanium metal implants that can cause allergic reactions and inflammation, both local and systemic.
- Superior gingival health: One-piece zirconia implants are considered much more “tissue friendly” for several reasons.
- Less gingival inflammation: Because of the reduced biofilm and plaque accumulation on the surface of the zirconia implant, metal-free implants are observed to have less gingival inflammation, and the gum looks very pink and healthy, making them ideal for esthetics and health.
- Less plaque and biofilm: Less biofilm accumulation on the zirconia material compared to titanium implants. Biofilm is bacteria building up around the implant that, unless removed properly, can cause inflammation, such as peri-mucositis and peri-implantitis, known inflammatory responses around titanium implants.
- Superior gingival attachment to implant: In fact, sometimes gums grow over the ceramic implant, since zirconia implants can have epithelial cell attachment while titanium implants cannot attach to the metal implant surface, creating a microgap and higher bacterial intrusion.
- Reduced bacterial implant junction accumulation/infiltration (No implant-abutment junction in one-piece zirconia implants): In a one-piece zirconia implant design. There is no prosthetic connections, which means there is no connection point to create micro-gaps and crevices, which can help prevent bacterial growth and reduce long-term inflammatory effects due to no bacterial infiltration at the abutment-implant connection point. Even in two-piece ceramic implants, because the zirconia implant and zirconia abutment are bonded together with cement, it is considered to have less micro-gap infiltration than traditional titanium implants, which are screw-retained.
- No Galvanic Reactions: Zirconia dental implants do not conduct electricity and do not cause galvanization like metal dental implants, which conduct electric currents and may disturb the bodies’ natural electrical flow through meridians.
- No Corrosion/No Metal Degradation: Zirconia dental implants do not corrode and do not release metal particles and metal ions the way that titanium alloy implants corrode, which means reduced peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant) and reduced systemic metal particle release reactions.
What are the different types of zirconia implants?
There are three main types of zirconia implants:
- One-piece zirconia implants: These implants have the implant and abutment as a single connected piece, offering a strong and seamless design.
- Two-piece zirconia implants: These implants consist of a separate implant and abutment, which are connected using cement.
- Three-piece zirconia implants: These implants feature a screw that holds the implant body and abutment together. Some three-piece zirconia implants use a metal screw, while others use a carbon fiber or PEEK screw.
- Metal-Hybrid Zirconia Implants: There are zirconia implant bodies with either metal screws or metal abutments – DO NOT agree to have these placed, as you will still have metal within the implant, which is not in line with the biological dentistry philosophy of metal-free biocompatible components only.
Are all zirconia implants 100% Metal Free?
Not all zirconia implants are 100% metal-free!
There are some dental implant manufacturers of titanium implants that have entered the US market that have created hybrid metal-zirconia dental implants, which are not recommended by Dr. May, a leading zirconia implant dentist and authority on zirconia implants.
Examples of Zirconia Implants that are not 100% metal-free and should be avoided:
Strauman Zirconia Implants: Metal-Abutment, Zirconia Body
Z-Systems Bone-Level Implant: Metal-Screw, Zirconia Body + Abutment
Patients must be very careful to understand the SPECIFIC type of zirconia implants the conventional dentist, oral surgeon, or periodontist will use in their surgical placement. Biological dentists almost exclusively use only 100% metal-free zirconia implant types and refuse to use any zirconia implant brands that include metal components.
What is the difference between tissue level and bone level zirconia implants?
Tissue-level zirconia implants are designed to sit at the gum line, while bone level implants are placed deeper into the jawbone. Most zirconia implants are tissue level, which can offer advantages in terms of gum health and aesthetics. There is a bone level zirconia dental implant available by Z-Systems, but the design has a potential for breakage and fracture, which is why Dr. May does not prefer to use that implant design.
Are zirconia implants as strong as titanium implants?
Zirconia is a highly durable and strong material, and zirconia implants have been shown to have similar success rates to titanium implants. In fact, a 15-year study published in 2024 shows a 97.6% survival rate for over 1,000 zirconia dental implants, highlighting excellent long-term success rates, making zirconia dental implants on par with, if not better long-term than, titanium dental implants. Importantly, the strength of a zirconia dental implant also depends on the MOST important factor, which is the skill and experience of the specifically trained zirconia implant dentist, and other factors such as the implant design, placement location, and the patient’s overall oral health. This is one of the reasons Dr. May is considered one the best zirconia dental implant dentists in the world, based on his experience, surgical skill and restorative expertise.
How long do zirconia implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, zirconia implants can last many years, potentially even a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits such as smoking can help extend the lifespan of your zirconia implants.
Are zirconia implants suitable for everyone?
While zirconia implants are a great option for many patients, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as jawbone density, overall health, and the specific location of the missing tooth can influence whether zirconia implants are the best choice. Your dentist or oral surgeon can help determine if zirconia implants are right for you.
How much do zirconia implants cost?
The cost of zirconia implants can vary depending on factors such as the type of zirconia implant design, the number of zirconia implants needed, and the location of the biological dental practice (for instance, Switzerland, Connecticut, New York, or North Carolina). In general, zirconia implants may cost more than traditional titanium implants. Read through our extensive zirconia dental implant costs to find the range of USA-based zirconia dental implant prices.
General Price Guidelines for Zirconia Implants:
Zirconia Implant Body (without abutment or crown): $4,000-$5,500 per zirconia implant body
Zirconia Implant Abutment: $500-$1,500, whether one-piece zirconia implant or a two-piece zirconia implant
Zirconia Implant Full Package With Implant, Abutment and Final Crown: $6,000-$10,000 depending on biological dentist skill, location of practice, experience of biological dentist, and specific clinical case
As a rule, front tooth ceramic implants generally cost more than posterior zirconia implants. Example: Front Tooth Zirconia Implant Cost (Package) – $10,000 vs Posterior Zirconia Dental Implant Cost: $7,000
How to Select and Find a Zirconia Dentist Near Me
Requirements for Selecting a Surgical Biological Dentist for Zirconia Dental Implants:
For the best zirconia implant dentist, clinical outcome and experience, it is recommended that every checkbox below is checked off. If you have any doubts, ask Dr. May via the inquiry form.
This is your guide to selecting the best dentist for zirconia dental implants, who may be closer to your location than Dr. May.
- Credentialed & Vetted Biological Dentist
- IAOMT Accredited
- IABDM Certified
- IAOCI Member
- AAID Fellow or Diplomat
- BGS – Institute of Biological Dentistry Certified
- SDS Ambassador (preferred)
- Tufts University Biological Surgery Wound Healing Surgery Program Dr. Ghanatti (preferred)
- Not sure? Check with Dr. May
- Surgically Trained Biological Dentist
- Performs Sinus Lifts (vertical + lateral)
- Performs Cavitation Surgery
- Performs Titanium Implant Removal
- Performs GBR (large bone grafting)
- Performs Block Grafting
- Performs Gingival CTG Grafting
- Must perform their own surgery work—do not have another dentist performing surgery inside or outside office
- Experience with Zirconia Dental Implants:
- Has placed and restored at least 500 zirconia implants
- Has experience numbers published on website (legal attestation proof, not phone)
- Before & After Zirconia Implant Portfolio (CRITICAL)
- Must have photo evidence in the photo and x-rays for each patient in portfolio
- Must see at least 25 cases in the before-and-after zirconia implant photo and xray portfolio
- Do not trust an office without before and after photos + xrays showing the following elements:
- Photo before and X-ray before
- Photo of actual zirconia implants before they are restored (white abutments)
- Photo of final crowns on top of zirconia implants
- Office Equipment
- Fotona Lightwalker Laser
- Ozone Machine
- Piezo Surgery Machine
- PRF Centrifuges
- Ideally also:
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
- Photobiomodulation Therapy (like ATP38, not Fotona)
- Hydrogen Gas Therapy
- Avoid zirconia implant dentists who:
- Also, place titanium implants (they are not truly biological or do not truly have expertise in zirconia implants)
- They are more “traditional” titanium implant dentists, and are supplementing with zirconia implants
- Dentists who do NOT perform their own surgery (have an on-staff periodontist, oral surgeon who comes to the office or refer out to specialist for surgery)
- Dentist specialists who do not restore their own zirconia dental implants
The cost of zirconia implants can vary depending on factors such as the type of zirconia implant design, the number of zirconia implants needed, and the location of the biological dental practice (for instance, Switzerland, Connecticut, New York, or North Carolina). In general, zirconia implants may cost more than traditional titanium implants. Read through our extensive zirconia dental implant costs to find the range of USA-based zirconia dental implant prices.
General Price Guidelines for Zirconia Implants:
Zirconia Implant Body (without abutment or crown): $4,000-$5,500 per zirconia implant body
Zirconia Implant Abutment: $500-$1,500, whether one-piece zirconia implant or a two-piece zirconia implant
Zirconia Implant Full Package With Implant, Abutment and Final Crown: $6,000-$10,000 depending on biological dentist skill, location of practice, experience of biological dentist, and specific clinical case
As a rule, front tooth ceramic implants generally cost more than posterior zirconia implants. Example: Front Tooth Zirconia Implant Cost (Package) – $10,000 vs Posterior Zirconia Dental Implant Cost: $7,000
About Dr. Yuriy May: a Top Zirconia Implant Dentist
A LEADING ZIRCONIA IMPLANT DENTIST IN USA
Located just outside of New York and widely sought after for his precision and leadership in biological oral surgery and zirconia implantology, Dr. Yuriy May is recognized as one of the best zirconia implant dentists in the country. With over 14 years of clinical experience, his work is defined by uncompromising standards, refined surgical execution, and outcomes that support both oral and systemic health.
Dr. May holds advanced certifications and training in zirconia implantology from programs ranging from IAOCI and Tufts University, is Board Certified as a Naturopathic Dentist by the ANMCB, and is a distinguished Ceramic Implant Ambassador for SDS—an honor reserved for clinicians shaping the future of ceramic implant science.
A respected educator and international lecturer, Dr. May has presented extraordinary ceramic implant cases to dentists worldwide, including the JCCI in Switzerland, and has served as an instructor in the Ceramic Implant Program at ACIMD. He lectures nationally, publishes complex metal-free surgical cases, and serves as a Board Member of the IAOCI (International Academy of Oral Ceramic Implantology). Dr. May has recently become an Associate Fellow of the AAID (American Academy of Implant Dentistry), one of the few focusing solely on zirconia dental implants, and has been and an Accredited S.M.A.R.T. Certified member of the IAOMT for many years. He is also a Certified Biological Dentist with the IABDM, reflecting his commitment to removing root canal infections and to mercury-safe, evidence-based biological protocols.
Dr. May’s reputation, results, and excellence in ceramic implant dentistry have made him a destination provider for patients and referring clinicians seeking the highest level of ceramic implant surgery and biological dental care.
DMD, AFAAID, IBDM, AIAOMT, CIABDM
Associate Fellow, American Academy of Implant Dentistry
ANMCB Board Certified Naturopathic Dentist