An understanding of the biomechanical failure modes of zirconia implants is essential so that an
optimal zirconia implant design can be developed [78]. Based on more fundamental studies in the
biomaterials science field, the physical mechanism of ceramic implant failure can be either chemical
and/or mechanical in nature [79]. Mechanical failure can occur either during the surgical placement of
the implant [78] or subsequent functional loading [80] (Figure 2)