Mini Dental Implants
Dental implants have quickly become the preferred method of replacing teeth today. Much more stable, comfortable, and attractive than conventional dentures, dental implants can replace anywhere from one to all of one’s teeth. As compared to conventional dentures, dental implants are preferred by most patients due to the fact that they are as inobtrusive in one’s mouth as are natural teeth. With dental implants, gone are the days of shifting, uncomfortable dentures. Once dental implants are installed, most people forget they are even there!
While most people are good candidates for dental implants, the availability of quality bone mass can be an issue for some, particularly for those who have been missing teeth for some time. Bone grafting can be a possible remedy for this problem, but so, too, can mini dental implants.
Mini Dental Implants vs Regular Dental Implants
Mini dental implants are just as their name indicates – a smaller profile version of standard dental implants. Although they are nearly half the size of their full-size counterparts, the performance of mini dental implants is much the same. They are able to support either single prosthetic crowns, implant supported bridges, or even implant supported dentures. Any of these can either be fixed (permanent) or removable, which adds a great deal of choice and customization options to dental implants.
Because they require less bone mass in which to be embedded, they can be a great option for those who don’t have enough healthy bone mass for regular dental implants but could still benefit from this form of tooth replacement.
Creating Mini Dental Implants
The creation of mini dental implants is the same as that of regular dental implants. First, the dental implant fixture is surgically placed below the gumline into the jaw, where it is then allowed ample time to fuse with the bone. This typically takes two to for months.
Once the implant fixture is firmly embedded in the jawbone, the abutment or connecting piece is then attached to the implant fixture below the surface of the gums (in some cases, this connecting piece is attached at the same time that the implant fixture is embedded – these are typically referred to as healing cuffs). After the abutment has been connected to the implant fixture and the soft tissues of the gums have been allowed time to heal, the prosthetic tooth, bridge, or denture can then be attached.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the primary benefits of dental implants is the ease of cleaning and maintenance. While conventional dentures must be removed each night and soaked in a cleaning solution to keep them clean, dental implants are maintained just like natural teeth. Simple daily brushing and flossing is typically all that is required to keep one’s dental implants – mini or otherwise – in tip top shape. Regular dental visits should be maintained, as well. Whether you have one mini dental implant or many, it is important to continue to maintain good oral hygiene practices and visit your dentist for regular dental examinations.