If you are an adult investigating procedures for replacing a missing tooth, dental implants may be the ideal option for supporting an artificial tooth in an otherwise healthy smile. Because implants can be affordable and nearly invisible when placed correctly, this procedure is popular with young people and older individuals alike.
Before a patient decides to talk to a dentist about any type of implant, it is worth discussing how regular dental implants function as part of a healthy set of teeth. After understanding this information, a patient will be better equipped to decide whether regular or mini implants would be of more benefit.
An implant procedure involves a hypoallergenic titanium post being inserted into a patient’s jawbone. This post will hold an artificial tooth, and it will eventually fuse with the bone, which will grow back around and provide stability for the artificial tooth. These implants are usually composed of two pieces of titanium that, together, can be as large as five millimeters in diameter.
There are special circumstances that might warrant either an alternative solution to a missing tooth or a different type of implant. Those with extensive jawbone loss, chronic smokers, or patients with other concerns related to the jawbone may be better candidates for smaller dental implants.
Even if a patient is familiar with implants, the surgical process, and other options when it comes to replacing a missing tooth, choosing the type of implants can be the next step in learning about this procedure. Mini dental implants are often a good choice, but these are not for everybody.
Mini implants, unlike regular implants, are usually made of one piece of titanium that is smaller than three millimeters in diameter with a small ball at one end. The balls can be used to fit O-rings to stabilize a patient’s dentures if necessary. While mini implants typically involve the same type of surgery as regular implants, the procedure overall can be considered less invasive due to the implants’ size.
Mini implants can be used to replace any missing tooth, are easy to place and care for, and can be used in patients who suffer from extensive loss of jawbone. Individuals who choose the miniature version of dental implants may also notice that these devices are easier to clean and do not interfere as much with chewing. Mini implants are also an excellent choice for stabilizing and anchoring dentures.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Mini vs. Regular Dental Implants in Pompano Beach, FL
While regular dental implants are possibly the more widely-known choice, there are several instances in which mini dental implants can be a better option. Ultimately, it is up to the dental provider to determine the right device for the patient, review the treatment options, and assist the patient in choosing the ideal type of implant.
Request an appointment or call South Florida Smile Spa, Nicole M. Berger, DDS at 954-395-2419 for an appointment in our Pompano Beach office.
Many dentists refer to dental implants as the “permanent tooth replacement option,” and while this descriptor is not necessarily inaccurate, it is not completely true, either. The longevity of a dental implant depends on several factors, including a patient’s oral health, lifestyle habits, dental hygiene practices, and diet, to name a few. Patients who are…
Patients may feel overwhelmed when a dentist suggests dental implants. The process can sound intimidating, but fortunately the practice of providing patients with a brand-new smile has been studied, modernized, and improved over the past several decades. Not only can patients feel confident smiling frequently in public again, but their oral health and daily function…
Dental implants have joined the list of replacement options for missing teeth, with many patients preferring the look and feel of implants to dentures or bridges. In addition to providing patients with natural-looking teeth, implants are effective in restoring confidence and making eating or speaking more comfortable. They also can improve an individual’s oral health.…
Your general dentist can help you achieve optimal dental health. Routine dental checks can even improve the way you care for your teeth. Busy schedules tend to prevent you from keeping your dental appointments. Making time for dental checks can help your teeth in many ways. If you want to know how routine dental visits…
Dental bridges are a method of permanently replacing missing teeth. Like other restoration options, they have both advantages and disadvantages. They are a common and fairly popular option.Whether you are a candidate for bridges or not depends on your individual circumstances. Your dentist can tell you for sure whether a bridge is an option for…