To understand mini dental implants, it helps if you have a working knowledge of regular dental implants. Regular or full-size dental implants are man-made tooth roots crafted from titanium or other materials designed to fuse with the jaw bone. An oral surgeon inserts the implant into the jaw bone, and over time, the bone tissue grows around the implant. Typically, implants are about 4 to 6 mm in diameter. A miniature dental implant is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a smaller implant, usually about 1.8 mm in diameter, designed to anchor a tooth or a denture.
Now, you’re probably wondering the purpose of having two sizes of implants and who mini dental implants are for. Mini dental implants were designed to provide temporary support while larger implants were integrated with the bone. However, dentists found that the mini implants often could not be removed, because the bone tissue fused to them so quickly. Now mini implants are used as an alternative for patients who do not have enough bone mass for full implants or who cannot withstand the oral surgery.
Benefits of mini dental implants:
- Minimally invasive placement process
- Immediate denture stabilization
- No cutting or sewing (sutures)
- Minimal post-operative soreness
- Placed in just one visit
You may be asking yourself why, if mini implants are so great, can’t everyone have them. Full-sized dental implants are still the ideal tooth replacement. A larger implant offers optimal support, and they have an extremely long lifespan, lasting a lifetime in most cases. Because mini implants are so small, they’re more likely to cause complications in the future. However, mini implants are still a good alternative for patients with slipping dentures who cannot receive traditional implant therapy.
We use advanced technology, including digital X-rays and the Kodak 9500 cone beam scanner to determine your candidacy for dental implants. Dr. Fitzgerald will explain your options and review all the benefits and risks of implant therapy prior to treatment. With an implant-supported denture, patients can experience new found confidence and peace of mind.
Call today to reserve your consultation with Dr. Lee Fitzgerald. Our Plano office serves the needs of Frisco, North Dallas, and other parts of the DFW Metroplex.