An estimated 178 million people are missing at least one tooth. Alarmingly, this is in the United States alone. Dental implants are considered one of the best tooth replacement options nowadays. Dental implants have been used to replace one or several teeth. Dental implants have also been used to hold removable dentures in place.
Mini Dental Implants in a Nutshell
As the name implies, mini dental implants have the same structure as traditional dental implants but they are smaller. Conventional dental implants are typically made up of two pieces and have a diameter of 3.25 to 5 millimeters. Mini dental implants on the other hand are composed of a one-piece screw and a ball-shaped end.
Unlike traditional implants, mini dental implants are a less invasive procedure. They also require less time compared to conventional dental implants. Typically, a mini dental implant procedure can be done in a single visit, with no sutures needed. Traditional dental implants can take several months and will require several appointments.
Mini Dental Implant Procedure: Your Easy Guide
The mini dental implant procedure is straightforward. While anesthesia will be used, you can go home immediately after the procedure. You can also eat normally but it is recommended that you refrain from consuming any hard foods like popcorn or nuts at least a few days after.
It is also likely that your dentist will prescribe antibiotics during the first week to keep infections at bay. It usually takes around 6 months before you will notice increased tooth stability. While some worry that the procedure can leave an unsightly and noticeable scar, it is reassuring to know there is no truth to this.
The Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
One of the most enticing benefits of mini dental implants is its ability to restore your smile effectively with minimal hassle. The mini dental implant procedure also gives you a new breath of confidence since you can eat and speak freely in public without needing dentures or uncomfortable adhesives.
Other remarkable benefits of mini dental implants include:
They are the best option when normal dental implants are too big.
When the patient does not have enough bone to support a regular dental implant, it is likely that mini dental implants will be recommended instead. Overall, mini dental implants have a smaller diameter and can easily fit into spaces where a regular dental implant might not.
They can help promote jawbone health.
Inserting mini dental implants into the jawbone can promote jawbone health since it is being stimulated. Mini dental implants can also help patients avoid the sunken face appearance, which can happen with other tooth replacement options like dentures.
They look just like natural teeth.
Mini dental implants are designed to mimic the feel, function, and appearance of the natural tooth. Understandably, more and more patients are opting for natural-looking tooth replacement options nowadays and mini dental implants won’t disappoint.
The procedure can be done in a single visit.
As mentioned earlier, since dental implants are smaller, they also require a less invasive procedure. In fact, a mini dental implants procedure can be done in a single trip to the dental office. The process is so much easier and faster compared to the process of placing regular-sized dental implants.
Are Mini Dental Implants Your Best Option?
Are you considering getting mini dental implants? Your dentist can tell you if you are a good candidate for the procedure. If you think getting mini dental implants is your best option, schedule a consultation with your dentist right away. Feel free to ask any questions about the procedure during the consultation to help you gauge if it is indeed the best option for you.
