Mini Dental Implants
If you have recently been planning to replace your missing teeth, you have realized how many tooth replacement options are available to choose from. The most popular tooth replacement options are bridges, dentures and dental implants. While bridges and dentures are removable artificial teeth that sit on the gum's surface, dental implants are permanently installed into the jawbone. Although they are popular, dental implants aren’t for everyone. For some patients the implant surgery is too overwhelming, while others lack the jawbone mass necessary to hold the implants. Mini dental implants offer the perfect solution for patients who want conventional dental implants but can’t have them. If you are interested in dental implants, below is more information to help you decide if mini implants are right for you.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. After the surgical placement, the bone fuses around the implant holding it in place. Dentures and bridges are removable and are not permanently secured in the mouth. Because of this, they can shift or slip, and don’t offer the same stability as natural teeth. Dental implants offer the stability, durability, and restore the function of natural teeth. However, in order for a dental implant to be successful, it is critical that the jawbone is healthy enough to securely hold the implant in place.
What are Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants are designed with the same structure as dental implants, but are built in a slightly smaller size. Mini implants are generally 1.8 to 3.3 mm in diameter. Mini implant systems include a titanium post with a ball on the end, and a socket that attaches the artificial crown to the post. Mini implants are just like regular implants, they can support dentures, bridges or crowns. Regular implants can take several months and at least two dental appointments to install. On the other hand, mini implants can be installed in just one dental visit. Sometimes regular implants require bone-grafting or additional treatments to be successful. Mini implants offer a similar result as dental implants without extra treatments. Mini implants offer a perfect tooth replacement option for patients who are not able to undergo invasive surgery, attend repeat dental appointments, or have lost too much bone mass in their jawbone.
How to Care for Mini Implants
Another benefit of mini dental implants is that they don’t require any more care than natural teeth. Adults with mini implants should brush and floss daily with normal toothpaste. If the gums are sensitive immediately after the implants are installed, you should still brush daily using an extra soft-bristled toothbrush.
Losing teeth can be an embarrassing experience and impact your self-esteem and self-confidence. Mini dental implants can restore the teeth’s function, the ability to speak and eat, and most importantly your lost self-esteem. If you are interested in dental implant treatment but didn’t think you would qualify, you should talk to your dentist about mini implants and see if they are a good option for you.