Traditional dental implants are increasingly regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Mini dental implants are similar but narrower in construction and can be beneficial in certain situations.
This guide discusses the definition of mini dental implants and when they will likely be used. We look at the potential benefits of this treatment and who may be suitable, and we provide a brief outline of the procedure needed.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Traditional dental implants have a diameter of 3.25mm up to 5 mm, but mini dental implants are narrower and have a diameter of less than 3 mm. A traditional implant generally has three separate components, which are the implant screw, abutment, and implant restoration.
Mini dental implants are generally constructed slightly differently from traditional dental implants. The implant screw and abutment can be combined into a single piece, although some systems are separate pieces.
When Are Mini Dental Implants Likely to Be Used?
We may suggest using mini dental implants instead of traditional implants in two situations:
- Stabilize dentures
- Restore smaller front teeth
Stabilizing Dentures
Using mini dental implants can stabilize traditional dentures, allowing them to be snapped in and out of your mouth easily. The denture has special attachments on its fitting surface closest to your gums. These click into attachments on the implants in your jaw, often in a ball and socket arrangement.
We may suggest mini dental implant dentures as a cost-effective solution for loose dentures.
Replacing Smaller Teeth
If you lose a smaller tooth, such as a lower incisor, there may be insufficient room for an ordinary diameter implant. In this case, a small-diameter or mini dental implant is a possible solution.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing Mini Dental Implants?
There are several advantages to choosing this option which include:
Less Invasive Surgery
Inserting mini dental implants is less invasive and quicker than traditional dental implants.
This is because there is no need for our implant dentist to make an incision into the gum. Instead, the mini dental implant is placed straight through the gum tissue and into the bone, eliminating the need for stitches.
Faster Healing
Healing after mini dental implants can be quicker since there is no need for incisions or stitches.
Faster Treatment
We may be able to fit temporary implant teeth onto your mini dental implants on the same day as your surgery.
Even though the mini dental implants must still heal and fuse with your jawbone, we can create a restoration that splints or locks them together, preventing the implants from moving during healing.
Cost-Effective
These implants can be cheaper due to their smaller size and their construction that combines the implant screw and abutment.
Reduced Need for Bone Grafting
Some people require bone grafting in preparation for traditional dental implants. This requirement can be reduced with mini dental implants due to their smaller size.
Therefore, this treatment can be useful for anyone who does not wish to have bone grafting or isn’t suitable for this procedure.
Who Can Benefit from Mini Dental Implants?
Like any dental implant treatment, you must have reasonable dental and medical health to be suitable for this procedure. When you have your initial consultation with our implant dentist, we must review your dental and medical health.
Dental implant surgery is less suitable for people with uncontrolled diabetes or who have other problems affecting their immune system that can slow healing after surgery. Any problems like bruxism or gum disease must be treated first.
Understanding the Process for Mini Dental Implants
The process for mini dental implants is similar to ordinary implant treatment. You must have diagnostic tests that include digital dental X-rays and a cone beam CT scan beforehand so we can plan your computer-guided surgery carefully.
When your treatment plan is complete, a computer-generated stent will be created to guide our implant dentist during your surgery.
- After numbing your mouth, we can create a small hole in your jawbone. The computer-generated stent fits over your gums for precision, allowing us to insert the implant directly into your gum.
- Each mini dental implant is tightened or torqued into place.
- Once all your mini dental implants are in position, we can attach any temporary teeth if appropriate.
- After your mini dental implants have healed, you return to our dental office several months later so we can make and fit your permanent restorations.
Recovery After Mini Dental Implant Surgery
With this minimally invasive implant treatment, your recovery should be swift and smooth. You can return to everyday activities in a day or two. Any discomfort should be minor and easily relieved with over-the-counter painkillers. Alternatively, we can provide a prescription for stronger pain relief. Explore our services to find the right treatment for your needs.
If you have mini implant dentures, you must follow a soft diet during healing. We will give you precise instructions on how to keep your mouth clean and what to eat. Otherwise, you will need to avoid biting on single implant teeth.
As with all our treatments, we are always here to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have after dental implant surgery.
Caring for Your Mini Dental Implants
All dental implants need regular oral care to keep them strong and infection-free. It’s vital to clean around your mini dental implants properly. Our hygiene team can work with you to ensure you know how to maintain them at home.
Schedule regular dental exams and hygiene appointments so we can check your mini dental implants carefully. Professional dental cleanings help keep them in great shape.
If you have mini implant dentures, we must assess the condition of your denture regularly. It may be necessary to replace the special attachments on the denture occasionally. As your denture ages, it will need replacing.
Learn More About Restoring Your Smile with Mini Dental Implants
If you would like to learn more about mini implants, schedule your consultation with our dental implant dentist. After assessing your mouth, we can discuss all suitable treatment options that meet your needs.
Our dental implant dentists are extremely well-trained and experienced and will ensure we only recommend treatments that will provide an optimal outcome. Trust the experts at dental center Franklin Square, NY to deliver exceptional care tailored to your needs.