It’s easier than ever to change your smile. Whether you have broken, crooked or missing teeth, there are plenty of options available to you to help you get the smile of your dreams.
When teeth are missing or need replacing, a dental implant is the most common procedure. However, dental implants can be invasive and are designed to be a permanent replacement for natural teeth. For some people, a dental implant might not be the most appropriate solution.
Mini implants are a way to replace missing teeth without having the full implant. They are potentially more suitable for those who have conditions that don’t allow for a full implant to be fitted, or even for those who are looking for a temporary solution while they consider other options.
Find out everything you need to know about mini implants to see if they’re the right treatment option for you.
About dental implants
Dental implants provide a long-term solution for missing teeth. They are implanted into the jawbone using a metal screw, which is then fixed to a crown. Over time, the implant fuses to the bone, helping them stay in place permanently. They are designed to be long-lasting and are often used in patients who have a gap in their teeth or those who have lost a tooth due to an injury or a condition that has caused the existing tooth to rot or decay.
Many people choose dental implants over other kinds of artificial teeth because they are permanent and fixed, and won’t move in the same way that a denture would. To work, the patient needs to have strong and healthy bones, as well as a lifestyle that won’t affect the fusing of the implant to the bone.
The difference between mini implants and dental implants
Mini implants, also known as small diameter implants, are similar to full dental implants, but they are smaller in size. The socket will have a rubber ring that helps keep the mini implant in place.
Mini implants are usually considered to be more comfortable than a dental implant. As they are half the size, they are less invasive to place, and are also more affordable. They can be a fantastic option if you need to replace a tooth quickly, or don’t want to undergo an invasive procedure.
The aftercare varies between the two types of implants, although you can expect a much shorter recovery time from the mini implant. They are also less prone to complications, and are easier to remove if you experience a problem or need the implant replaced for whatever reason.
Who are they suitable for?
Mini implants are becoming more popular amongst people who want to find a middle solution between dentures and implants. Older people, in particular, might prefer a mini implant as it is smaller, with a shorter recovery period. For people replacing a number of teeth at once, the mini implant can be a more welcome treatment.
Mini implants are suitable for replacing teeth, and can help secure dentures where needed. A mini implant is much more affordable than a regular implant, although it might need replacing over time. The procedure is much less invasive than a full implant, which is why it’s a preferred option for many people.
However, a mini implant might not be suitable for everyone. If bone mass is dense, it can be difficult to place a mini implant, and a patient may need a bone graft to make the procedure possible. Those looking for a permanent solution, with fewer visits to the dentist might prefer a full implant, which can benefit nervous patients.
With a mini implant, the procedure usually happens in one visit, using local anaesthetic to numb the area. In most cases, patients are able to use their new teeth immediately, which helps with the recovery.
Caring for mini implants
Like your natural teeth, mini implants need proper care to ensure their longevity. It’s important that you take care of your oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and use mouthwash. Thorough oral hygiene is important to maintain the appearance of your implants, as well as your remaining natural teeth. In the same way you’d take care of your natural teeth, try to avoid foods that can cause staining - including drinking too much tea and coffee.
In the initial days and weeks following your procedure, you’ll want to take extra care with your new implants. Using a softer bristle brush can help ease any discomfort and stops you from damaging your gums. If you experience any discomfort following the procedure, it’s important that you consult your dentist as soon as possible.
Cost of mini implants
Mini implants are typically half the cost of a regular implant. It can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2-000 for a single implant, which can make it a costly procedure if you require more than one mini implant. Most implants are not covered by Medicaid or many private insurances as it’s considered more of a cosmetic procedure, which means you’ll have to have your implant carried out privately.
There are many benefits to using a private dentist, including having more comfortable surroundings, and a wider range of treatment options. A consultation with your dentist will be able to tell you if a mini implant is the most suitable option for you and your circumstances.
Where to get further information on mini implants
If you’re considering getting a mini implant, it’s worth consulting your dentist. They’ll be able to provide you with all of the information you require as well as further details on treatment costs, recovery times and advise on what the end result could look like.
Losing your teeth or suffering from damage can affect your confidence. With many solutions available to help you fix your smile, dental implants could be the answer. Mini implants have many benefits, and can be a small price to pay in exchange for restoring your confidence. Book an appointment to help you learn more about dental implants and say hello to a new smile that builds your confidence inside and out.
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