What Are Mini Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Unfortunately, some people cannot have dental implants because their jawbones do not have enough mass to hold dental implants or cannot undergo the procedure for another reason. The good news is that mini dental implants may be an option!

Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth

When it comes to replacing one or more teeth, dental implants are a popular alternative to bridges and dentures.

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots, which means they act like natural roots that hold teeth securely in the jawbone. Shaped like a screw, the titanium implant is inserted into the jaw, where the surrounding bone tissue grows into the implant to hold it firmly in place. The replacement tooth root (Implant) can hold a dental crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth. Dental implants can also support removable dentures.(Implant overdenture)

Traditional dental implants require the patient to have enough bone mass to support the implant. These implants typically have two parts – the titanium implant and an abutment that connects to the crown or denture. Conventional dental implants usually have a diameter of 3 to 8 millimeters (mm).

Placing traditional dental implants requires cutting into the gums to expose the bone, and drilling a hole in the bone to create a space for the implant. The procedure also includes stitching the gum closed.

The placement of traditional dental implants usually requires at least two visits to the dentist and takes several months to complete.

About Mini Dental Implants

As their name suggests, mini dental implants are smaller than their traditional counterparts.. Their small size comes with benefits too. The procedure is much less involved and patients do not need as much bone mass.

A mini implant is small and simple

Mini implants are small, measuring less than 3mm in diameter. Their one-piece construction features a screw with a ball or a tapered rectangular portion that protrudes  out of the gum into the mouth and connects directly to the crown or denture.

Placing mini dental implants

The technique to place mini dental implants is less invasive than placing conventional dental implants. The dentist starts by numbing the patient’s gums in a way that is similar to having a cavity filled. Next, the oral surgeon inserts the smaller-sized implant through the gum and screws it into the bone – no incisions or stitching required.

Because the procedure is less involved, the placement of mini implants requires less time than traditional dental implants. Dentists can usually place mini dental implants in a single visit, although some patients may need to first undergo a 3D scan to allow virtual placement prior to the actual surgery that can be guided to prevent injury to nerve or sinus cavity. .

Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants may be better for some patients, and for a variety of reasons. These smaller implants might be the best choice for patients who:

• Cannot undergo invasive surgery
• Do not have enough time for repeat dental visits
• Want results in a single appointment
• Do not have enough bone in their jaw to support a full-sized implant

Caring for Mini Implants

Mini dental implants require the same care as natural teeth – brushing twice a day, flossing once daily, and regular visits to the dentist. Patients who have plaque or tartar buildup may benefit from using fluoride toothpastes or special rinses to keep teeth and gums healthy.

For more information on mini dental implants, contact us today. Mini dental implants may be your best option for restoring your healthy smile. Call us at 301-294-8700 or request an appointment online.