I have metal allergies and I’m wondering how I would react with All on 4 dental implants. Since 2001 I’ve worn dentures and I’ve started noticing some bone shrinkage and difficulty keeping my dentures in. I went to an implant dentist who recommended All on 4. Whenever any dental treatment is recommended to me, I ask about the metal. I’m told that titanium is used for the implant fixtures. The implant dentist quickly said that it won’t be any problem but I’m not sure that he understands metal allergies. My ears, neck, and wrists easily break out from jewelry. I switched to cotton cord jewelry and I only wear sterling silver post earrings. I’m going to get a second opinion, I think. Before I schedule anything, I’m wondering if you know anything about dental implants and how they work for people with metal allergies. I can’t move forward with a maybe it will be okay. Thank you. Madeleine
Madeleine – If you have a metal allergy, it usually presents in a reaction like hives or anaphylactic shock. Your description of breaking out only in places where you’re wearing jewelry is a localized reacation—not throughout your body—so it’s considered a metal sensitivity. It’s unlikely that All-On-4 implants will present a problem.
Nickel is the most common metal that causes sensitivities. The fact that you can tolerate sterling silver suggests that your sensitivity is mainly to nickel. You might have other metal sensitivities that you’ve been tested for or are aware of.
So what should you consider?
- Visit an allergist to be tested for metal allergists.
- Ask your implant dentist about the composition of the All-On-4 implant fixtures that will be used in your case. It makes a difference whether the fixtures are all titanium or titanium alloy.
- It might help to get a second opinion from an experienced implant dentist. Find a prosthodontist or implant surgeon who has successfully placed at least hundreds of implants.
Most manufacturers list the composition of implant fixtures on the packaging. An implant dentist who uses high-quality fixtures will have no problem identifying the composition of the fixtures for you.
Ensure you’re comfortable with the response you get regarding your metal concerns before you get All-On-4 or any other type of implants and before you select a provider.
This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist and implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
