Dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. They replace the entire tooth root as well as the crown. But what are mini dental implants and in what circumstances are they used? Dr. Drew Shulman, a dentist in Northeast Philadelphia, discusses mini dental implants.
What are Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants have a similar, yet smaller, structure compared to regular dental implants. They, too, have a titanium post, but their other features differ. The titanium post for mini implants has a ball on the end and there’s a socket with a rubber o-ring to attach the final restoration to the post.
Why Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants are a good option for people that are unable to get regular dental implants due to bone loss. Since they’re smaller, mini dental implants don’t require bone grafting or anything similar to be done if there’s bone loss from missing teeth. To get the stability you want from normal dental implants, there needs to be a certain amount of bone where the implants are going.
Mini dental implants are also less invasive. The procedure can usually be done at the office under just local anesthesia. They don’t even require sutures. Normal dental implants are usually a months-long process due to the jawbone healing and fusing required. With mini dental implants, you can get the procedure and be using your new implants on the same day. They’re less expensive than traditional implants.
Just like with traditional implants, though, they feel extremely natural in your mouth. You’ll be able to take care of them with a simple routine of brushing, flossing, and visiting Dr. Shulman bi-annually for checkups and cleanings. There are no dietary restrictions and no worry of slippage. They also prevent the appearance of facial sagging that happens when you’re missing teeth.
The Mini Dental Implants Process
The process is similar to the one for traditional implants but much less invasive. The implant posts are placed into the jawbone where needed. Then, the final restoration can be placed on the same day. Like traditional implants, the most common final restoration is a dental crown. However, mini dental implants can also support dentures and dental bridges too.
While you’ll be able to use your new implants later that day, you are going to experience a bit of discomfort. Try to avoid hard or sticky foods and stick to a softer diet for the first day or two. Your gums will be sensitive as well, so use a toothbrush with extremely soft bristles starting out. This will help keep you as comfortable as possible, without irritating those sore spots.
Mini Dental Implants at Your Northeast Philadelphia Dentist
Do you think mini dental implants are the solution for your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online for the future, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope to see you soon!