What are Mini Implants?
Dental Implants have become a popular choice for those looking for a permanent solution to replace one or more missing teeth.
However, some people do not want or cannot opt for conventional implants due to the lack of bone mass in the jaw to support the implant or for the simple reason that they want to avoid intrusive & painful surgery unless it is essential.
A newer type of dental implant, mini dental implants are small implants that have a similar structure and look like standard dental implants, but are typically about half the size of a traditional dental implant, which makes them easier and less painful to install.
They also do not need the same amount of jaw bone mass as traditional dental implants.
Not only is the process to install them less invasive, but it is also a quick procedure that usually requires only a single appointment.
Mini Dental Implants use a 1-piece screw which is a little bit smaller than 3 mm whereas traditional dental implant screws are made of 2 pieces and have a diameter between 3.25 and 5 mm.
Mini dental implants have two parts – a titanium post with a ball on the end and a socket with an O-ring that attaches the tooth to the post which is embedded in the jaw.
Titanium is a metal that can be integrated into the body so it is used to integrate the implant in the jaw and the rod used to attach the dental implant mimics the movement of the natural tooth that can help to prevent facial collapse and other issues.
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or to stabilize dentures.
These benefits include:
- Less invasive surgery
- Quick recovery
- Lower cost
- Less jawbone density is needed
- No need for bone grafting
- Faster results
- The capability of fitting into smaller areas of the mouth
- Less painful to place and repair
- More permanent choice than bridges or dentures
- Prevents facial collapse
- Mini implants can help to stabilize the dentures and provide an alternative to dentures adhesives.
Who Can Get Mini Implants?
Mini dental implants are an ideal recommendation when bone resorption has taken place or the jawbone mass is not enough to support a traditional implant.
These are also ideal or quick solutions as the process of installing them is relatively quick and painless as compared to traditional dental implants.
Though a good option for people who are unable to have traditional dental implants, Mini Implants are not an ideal fit for all tooth loss.
These cannot be used in children or anyone whose mouth isn’t fully developed as the implant can become surrounded by the bone as the bone grows.
They’re also not an ideal option for people who grind their teeth or for people with certain health issues including:
- Diabetes
- Vascular disease
- Hemophilia or any other clotting issue
- Bone disease
- Periodontitis or gum disease
- Issues that can impact wound or bone healing
The Ability to get mini dental implants can also be impacted if the person
- Is a smoker
- Jas limited oral hygiene
- Takes any anticoagulant medications
- Is on any medication that slows down bone healing
- Is receiving chemotherapy or radiation
Though Mini implants do not require as much jawbone density as traditional implants, still some amount of bone density is needed to place them.
Thus they might not work if one has severe decay and bone loss.
People with recessed or damaged gums might also be unable to support mini implants.
