If you have missing teeth, you have more options than ever to restore your beautiful smile; however, over 500,000 Americans choose dental implants annually. As the only treatment to replace both the root and crown, it creates a nearly perfect replica of your natural tooth, but not everyone can get traditional dental implants. If you’re not a candidate because of bone loss or other issues, don’t lose hope. Mini dental implants may be the answer to your problem.
Traditional Implants VS Mini Dental Implants
Dental implants revolutionized dentistry, allowing patients to benefit from the next best thing to their real teeth. A titanium post is placed into the jawbone to mimic the root to stabilize a restoration. Patients must have sufficient bone density to qualify for dental implants.
Unfortunately, bone loss is a common problem for adults with missing teeth. You can lose 25% of your jawbone’s density within the first year of losing a tooth, which will continue to deteriorate as more time passes. As a result, many patients require bone grafting to get dental implants, adding time and money to their treatment plan.
Mini dental implants are ideal for patients with bone loss. You can skip bone grafting to streamline your journey to a complete smile using a cost-effective solution. As their name suggests, mini dental implants are smaller than traditional posts. They have a diameter of 1.8 to 3.3 millimeters, whereas traditional dental implants are between 3.75 and 4.1 millimeters. The smaller design is also great for patients with small teeth because they can fit in tight areas.
Candidates for Mini Dental Implants
Whether you’re new to dentures or have worn them for years, you can add the security of dental implants without bone grafting. However, you’ll still require a consultation to ensure they are right for you. You may be a candidate for mini dental implants if:
- You have good oral and general health: The long-term success of any dental implant treatment relies on your bone fusing with the posts. Your implant dentist will look for any issues that could affect your healing or the risk of infections.
- You want a fast treatment: Since the posts are smaller, the placement surgery for mini dental implants is less invasive. You’ll skip bone grafting and enjoy a faster recovery for a complete smile sooner.
- You are a long-time denture wearer: Your gum tissue can shrink and atrophy over time, causing you to need frequent adjustments. Dental implants will eliminate slipping and irritation by stabilizing your denture.
Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or all your teeth, you don’t have to settle for anything less than the best. Ask your dentist if mini dental implants are right for you.
About Dr. John White
Dr. White earned his dental degree at the University of North Carolina before continuing his training in extractions, sedation dentistry, and dental implants. His skills and qualifications have earned him his Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. If you are interested in dental implants, contact our office today to request a consultation.