The choice between chrome-cobalt and titanium is not just about cost — it affects every aspect of the restoration from fit to patient comfort.
Chrome-Cobalt (CoCr)
Pros: Lower cost, higher modulus of elasticity (stiffer), excellent wear resistance, compatible with traditional casting. Cons: Heavier, potential for nickel sensitivity (in some alloys), requires sectioning for multi-implant passive fit, radiopacity can obscure radiographic evaluation.
Titanium
Pros: Superior biocompatibility, 45% lighter weight, milled precision (no casting errors), radiolucent (better radiographic assessment), corrosion resistant. Cons: Higher material cost, requires CAD/CAM milling, softer surface (more susceptible to scratching during finishing).
For full arch implant cases, we recommend milled titanium bars for their precision and biocompatibility. For conventional removable partial dentures, CoCr remains the standard due to cost-effectiveness.