Mini Dental Implants

Replacing missing teeth can have a positive influence on the quality of life.  That's because smiling, chewing and talking are made easier with a full set of teeth.

One of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years has been the development and use of dental implants.  Dental implants are medical devices that replace the root portion of missing natural teeth.  If a permanent tooth has been lost due to accident, injury or disease, an implant is a popular and effective solution.

A dental implant is a strong, cylindrical post that is placed below the gums in an upper or lower jaw bone.  Part of the implant extends through the gums and serves as an anchor for one or more artificial teeth.  With most regular dental implants, a second piece called an abutment, is connected to the implant to support the replacement teeth.  mini implants are all one piece--they have no separate abutment.

A dental implant may be used to support a single artificial tooth or several teeth.  Because they are firmly anchored to the jaw bone, implant -- supported artificial teeth provide the look, feel, stability and function of natural teeth.

What are "mini" dental implants?

Like regular dental implants, mini implants are made of metal alloys that are well tolerated by the body.  Mini implants are more slender than those of regular dental implants and typically are used to stabilize a removable denture or temporary tooth replacement.  The base of the denture rests gently on the slender implants and on the gums.

Mini dental implants cost significantly less than regular implants.  Because mini implants are small, they may be suitable for patients without enough jaw bone density to support regular implants.  In some cases, mini implants may be used to support a crown or a fixed bridge.

What is involved?

In many cases, mini dental implants are placed in the jaw bone without making a surgical incision i the gums.  In other words, they may be placed directly through the gums and into the underlying bone in one visit.

Generally, the only anesthetic necessary is a local injection.  Additional anesthesia may be offered to make the patient more comfortable or relaxed, if necessary.  Minimal discomfort may be experienced after the treatment, but this can be controlled by pain medication recommended or prescribed by the dentist.

When used to support a removable denture, four to six mini dental implant posts are placed in the jaw.  the patient's existing denture is adjusted and attached to the posts.  Unlike conventional dental implants, which often require a longer healing period and multiple visits, a mini dental implant-supported denture often can be placed in one visit that takes less than two hours.  The patient leaves the dental office with a solid denture and generally can begin eating the same day.

For some patients, additional steps may be needed to prepare the jaw before mini dental implants are placed.  Your dentist can develop a treatment plan that is right for you.