Traditional implants dominate the world of implant dentistry for a long time since its first use in 1965. Since then, dentists start to replace missing teeth using metal posts that are placed into their patients’ jaw bone through surgery. They use titanium in making two-piece implants that act as artificial roots of the dental prosthesis. Then, these are covered with dental crowns, dentures, or bridges to completely restore their patients’ smiles. In 1999, mini dental implants were introduced to dental practitioners and have changed the ways in implant dentistry for the better. 

What are mini dental implants (MDIs)?

Mini implants are single-piece types of implants that look like a screw with a ball protrusion on top. The round protrusion acts as a connector to the dental prosthesis. Mini teeth implants have a smaller diameter, with less than three millimeters. This is what sets it apart from the traditional dental implants, having four to six millimeters in diameter. 

On one hand, traditional and mini teeth implants are both made from medical grade titanium. This kind of metal is compatible with the human body. Hence, they provide a sturdy base for dental restorations such as dentures, bridges, and crowns. So, if you need replacement teeth, you now have two options when you want to undergo a dental implant procedure. You can either have a traditional or a mini implant. 

When do dentists recommend traditional or mini dental implants?

While there are two alternatives for implants, you cannot simply choose one over the other without the dentist’s recommendation. The appropriate use of implants highly depends on the dentist’s diagnosis, your oral health, and even your existing medical condition. When you are found to have sufficient jaw bone density, healthy teeth and gums, traditional implants are your best option. 

Meanwhile, patients who want to stabilize the dentures that they are using for the longest time can have mini teeth implants. This way, dentures become securely attached to the gum tissue. In effect, patients no longer fear that the artificial teeth may fall off at any moment. 

Also, those with smaller teeth and which gaps are narrower are good candidates for mini dental implants. Dentists also recommend mini implants when their patients need a replacement for their front teeth or premolars. In some cases, patients do not want to undergo bone grafting even with insufficient jaw bone density. Thankfully, MDIs are available as their best possible option to still push through with the implant procedure. 

Advantages of mini dental implants

No surgery required

The London dentist can easily insert a mini implant into the gums due to its shape and a smaller diameter. The shape of the mini implant is like a dental screw with a diameter comparable to that of a toothpick. Therefore, the  patient does not have to undergo an invasive surgery unlike with traditional implants. 

The recovery period is up to 10 days only

After the mini-implant placement procedure, your recovery period is only a matter of 10 days. This means that while you’re recuperating, you will be asked to go on a soft diet. After that, you can already go back to your regular diet. Meanwhile, the recovery period for patients who undergo traditional implant surgery is up to three months. 

Cost-effective 

The mini dental implant cost is relatively lower by more than 50 percent compared to the traditional implants. The difference is in the size and simplicity of the dental procedure. Also, patients don’t need to undergo a pretreatment procedure such as bone grafting. 

Secure your dentures with mini implants

Most find comfort in wearing removable dentures because dental prostheses are one of the fastest methods of replacing missing teeth. Not to mention, dentures are the first artificial teeth in dentistry and millions of patients continue to smile brightly because of these. Yet, there’s a huge inconvenience when it comes wearing dentures. First, you need to wear and take them off every day. Second, dentures become ill-fitting that you don’t feel comfortable wearing them anymore. They start to hurt your gums, and worse, they may come off when you’re talking or laughing out loud. 

Today, modern approaches to restorative dental treatment integrate dentures with mini teeth implants. As a result, mini implants add security and stability to removable dentures. Patients feel comfortable with their restorations than ever before. They can enjoy any type of food they want without worry. They feel more confident when they smile and talk. Stable prostheses allow them to make the most out of life. 

Keeping your mini implants clean 

Taking care of your mini implants is just like keeping your natural teeth clean. Exercise great oral habits such as brushing twice a day and flossing once. However, be cautious in cleaning your teeth within a few days from the implant procedure so you won’t disrupt the healing process.