There are several kinds of implants used to replace missing or broken teeth. Generally known as dental implants, there are some that are actually much smaller in size than regular dental implants. These smaller ones are known as mini implants simply because of their size.
The Different Types of Dental Implants
There are generally three main types of dental implants.
Endosseous implants are the kind where a screw or rod is installed into the jawbone. Although this is considered the most popular of the dental implant options, it may not work for some patients without proper bone density.
Subperiosteal implants involve the use of a metal frame which is designed to fit under the gum line. They are not inserted into the jawbone but sit on top of it instead. This is the logical choice for patients lacking the bone density for endosseous implant installation.
Mini implants are the final option. As the name suggests, these much smaller implants can be used to remedy situations where teeth are small, when teeth are in narrow locations and in cases where bone density is low for front teeth. This is also the most affordable option.
Mini Implant Benefits
Aside from the cost difference to traditional dental implants, mini implants have many benefits. These are primarily due to their size which means smaller screws can be inserted into the jawbone taking less time. They also require less bone density in order to be successful.
Are Dental Implants Right For You?
Even if you have decided to get either a full size or mini dental implant to address missing teeth, the decision is not entirely yours. You must have a dentist or dental specialist first examine your teeth to determine if you are a candidate for any kind of dental implant.
Your dental examination will reveal whether or not your jawbone has enough density for one or several implants. It will also determine if traditional or mini implants would work best to repair your missing teeth. Implants may not be the best option for your circumstances.
On the offhand chance that your dental requirements cannot be remedied through the use of dental implants, you still have other options. Your dentist or dental specialist will be able to best advise you on the correct solution to your needs and provide you information on each.
The Procedure
If it turns out that you are a candidate for dental implants, you will follow a systematic procedure that will include more than one visit to a dentist. The first visit will be to determine how many, where, the size and type of implants to be installed in your jawbone.
Broken teeth to be replaced will be removed. In places where there is no tooth, the gum is cut open to the jawbone and a hole is drilled. The implant screw is inserted in the hole and left to allow the bone to fuse to the screw. This can take up to nine months to complete.
Once the implant screw has properly fused to the bone, another procedure is required to permit access to the top of the screw. The installation of a crown or bridge to this and other screws takes place in another operation. Once they heal, your implant procedure is complete.
Implants Improve Your Smile
Any kind of dental implant, traditional or mini, will not only brighten your smile, they do much more for you. They allow you to communicate and eat normally.
They also improve your self-confidence which makes them a great long-term investment in yourself.
About The Author:
Dr. Richard Oxenbould is the owner and principal dentist at Forster Dental Centre. He has experience in all types of dentistry, including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, extractions, etc. If you live in the area, contact Forster Dental Centre for information on how they can help with your dental issues.
