A Secure, Long-Lasting Solution for Tooth Loss
Dental implants are a permanent, natural-looking solution for tooth loss that can help boost self-confidence and good health. Sometimes, a patient who has suffered from tooth loss may lose bone density because their tooth root is no longer there to stimulate their jawbone.
If this is the case, and you’ve been missing one or more teeth for a long time, then Dr. Al Villalobos may recommend mini dental implants. Learn how we can restore your smile with our restorative treatment.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Just like regular implants, mini dental implants can restore your dental health and replace one or more missing teeth. They’re much smaller and don’t require a large jawbone density amount, allowing you to receive them if you’ve suffered from severe bone deterioration.
Benefits of Mini Implants
Mini dental implants offer a variety of benefits in addition to helping you smile with confidence again, such as:
- Requires less bone mass
- Comfortable
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Less expensive than regular implants
- Reduces the need for a bone graft
- Shorter healing time
Placing the Implants
Mini implants secure a full upper or lower denture to the jawbone. This restorative option is used for single-tooth replacements, but Dr. Villalobos will typically recommend a regular dental implant if you have good bone density.
After your consultation, your dentist will place the mini implants along your gum line. When using the mini implants for a full arch replacement, Dr. Villalobos will utilize four to six implants to serve as a base for your denture piece.
With the small size of mini implants, we won’t have to make large incisions like with regular dental implants. Mini implant posts can be inserted right through the gum into the bone, requiring less time to heal. It also eliminates the need for osseointegration since the restoration can be attached immediately or only a short period after the procedure.
Caring for Mini Dental Implants
Cleaning your mini dental implants is the same as your regular teeth. Simply brush and floss twice daily and rinse with mouthwash at least once daily. It’s also wise to keep up with your biannual visits to the dentist for cleanings and exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditional dental implants are a good choice if you have a healthy jawbone density. Mini implants are a good choice if you don’t have as much healthy bone left or want a less invasive procedure.
Before your implant placement procedure, your dentist may offer sedation dentistry and apply a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable and numb to any pain.
After the treatment, most patients say they feel little to no discomfort. However, during your recovery, dentists recommend taking pain medication, like Ibuprofen, and using a cold compress to help alleviate your pain.
Just like traditional dental implants, mini implants will last a lifetime with proper oral care and regular dental check-ups at your dentist’s office. Since mini dental implants bond naturally into your jawbone, they offer more stability and durability than any other tooth-replacement option.
Yes, mini dental implants can be used for upper arch dentures. However, how many mini implants are used for upper will be different compared to lower arch dentures. Upper arch dentures will require more mini implants, unlike lower arch dentures which use four to six implants. Ask your dentist which dental implant best fits your situation and dental needs.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Jupiter Dentist Today!
Are you curious to know if you’re a good candidate for mini dental implants? Call our Jupiter office at (561) 744-0677 to schedule a consultation. You can also get in touch by filling out our online contact form. We’re proud to provide implant services to patients in Jupiter, FL, and the surrounding areas like Hobe Sound, Limestone Creek, and Tequesta, FL.