Dental implants are a surgical option for patients who want to replace one or more lost teeth. But not everyone is able to have the invasive surgery that’s required for dental implants such as those with limited bone mass.
Luckily, mini dental implants can provide the same dental replacements as dental implants albeit on a smaller scale.
What are mini dental implants?
Despite their name, mini dental implants aren’t tiny false teeth. They’re dental implants with a smaller titanium post.
For instance, regular dental implants are between 3.4 and 5.8 mm wide. But mini dental implants are between 1.8 to 3.3 mm wide.
This allows patients who may not have the bone mass to hold a full-size dental implant in their jaw to still receive a replacement tooth. Approximately 47.2% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease and may lose teeth due to decay.
This can be problematic because the additional space can cause the remaining teeth to shift. Yet not every patient is able to receive a full-size dental implant to keep this from happening, which is where mini implants come in.
How long does it take to receive a mini implant?
It can take several months and dental appointments to receive regular dental implants. You may also need to undergo bone-grafting to make sure you have enough bone mass to support the titanium posts.
In comparison, mini implants don’t take as long to implant and heal because the surgery isn’t as invasive. Typically, your dentist can install mini implants in a single visit using only local anesthesia. What’s more, you may also be able to use your newly implanted teeth on the same day.
You’ll need to care for your mini implant the same way you’d care for your natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing at least once. After the procedure takes place, your gums will continue to be sensitive.
For this reason, a softer toothbrush may be recommended until the area is healed. Over the counter pain medication may also be used for any discomfort.
Mini implants can support many types of replacement teeth including dentures, dental bridges, and fixed tooth crowns.
