Dental Implant Materials Used in Korea

Dental implants in Korea are built from highly biocompatible materials chosen to integrate reliably with the jawbone and support long-term function. Clinics typically select implant materials based on strength, biological compatibility, patient needs (e.g., metal allergy), and aesthetic goals.

The implant body (fixture), abutment, and crown can all use different materials to optimize performance.

Main Materials for the Implant Body

Titanium (Most Widely Used)

Titanium is the standard material for dental implant roots (fixtures) used in Korea.

• Titanium is biocompatible, corrosion-resistant, and integrates well with bone tissue (osseointegration).
• Most implants are manufactured solidly from commercially pure titanium or titanium alloys designed to balance strength with flexibility, making them durable and long-lasting.
• Titanium remains the most trusted material for implant fixtures due to decades of scientific study and clinical success.

Because of these properties, titanium is the go-to choice for most dental implants in Korea, including single tooth replacements and full-arch restorations.

Ceramic Implants (Zirconia)

Zirconia implants (ceramic) are also used, though less commonly than titanium.

• Zirconia is a ceramic material with excellent aesthetics and biocompatibility, especially attractive for patients with metal sensitivity or those prioritizing a metal-free solution.
• Zirconia-based implants can offer a natural tooth-like color and high tissue compatibility, but they may still be chosen case-by-case. MAKE Dental

Abutment Materials

The abutment connects the implant fixture to the crown. Common materials include:

• Titanium abutments: Strong, biocompatible, and widely used.
• Zirconia abutments: Used for enhanced aesthetics, especially in the front smile zone where metal visibility might be a concern.

These options allow clinicians to balance strength and visual outcomes based on the implant location.

Crown Materials on Korean Implants

While not part of the implant body itself, crown materials are essential for aesthetics and function:

• Zirconia crowns: Highly aesthetic and strong.
• Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): Durable, though metal can be visible at the gumline in some cases.
• Full ceramic crowns: Excellent aesthetics for visible teeth. 서울스마일스튜디오

Leading Implant Systems and Materials Used in Korea

Korean clinics use a mix of domestic brands and global premium systems, offering flexibility in material choice and clinical design.

Korean Implant Brands

Many Korean manufacturers produce high-quality implant systems built primarily from titanium alloys, with surface treatments designed to enhance bone integration:

• Osstem Implant – One of the most widely used Korean implant systems with long clinical history. Gangnam A Plus Dental Clinic
• MegaGen – Known for advanced designs and good initial stability. Gangnam A Plus Dental Clinic
• Dentium – Popular for predictable osseointegration and versatility.
• Neo Biotech (Neobiotech) – Designed for precise placement and strong integration. 서울 베니어 치과
• Biotem – Trusted Korean brand with solid clinical performance.
• YES Biotech – Offers cost-effective implants with reliable results.
• SLOCK IMPLANT – A bio-engineered Korean system with unique design principles.

Global Premium Brands Used in Korea

Many clinics also use international implant systems made from high-grade titanium or advanced alloys:

• Straumann (often using titanium or titanium-zirconium Roxolid®) – premium material and surface technology known for strong osseointegration.
• Other respected global brands (used selectively) may be available based on case requirements.

Surface Treatments & Integration

Beyond base materials, the surface texture and treatment of an implant body play a critical role in how well the bone integrates:

• Roughened, blasted, or chemically treated surfaces improve osseointegration compared to smooth surfaces.
• Many implant systems used in Korea incorporate these advanced treatments to support quicker and stronger bone attachment.

Choosing Materials Based on Patient Needs

Dentists in Korea usually recommend implant materials based on:

• Location of the missing tooth (front vs back)
• Bone quality and density
• Aesthetic priorities
• Any history of metal sensitivity
• Long-term functional goals

Clinics often customize the implant system to your situation rather than promoting a one-size-fits-all approach.

Summary

Main implant materials used in Korea:

• Titanium and titanium alloys: Most common and clinically proven.
• Zirconia ceramics: Metal-free alternative for specific aesthetic preferences. MAKE Dental
• Various surface treatments: Enhance bone integration and long-term stability.
• Popular implant systems used in Korean clinics:
  Domestic brands like Osstem, MegaGen, Dentium, Neo Biotech, Biotem, and YES Biotech as well as international systems such as Straumann — all primarily using titanium-based materials with options for ceramic components.