When you’re missing teeth, simple daily tasks, like eating, speaking, and smiling, can become challenging. Dental implants are an excellent option because they have so many benefits, but what if you don’t have enough jawbone density to support them? While you may not be able to get standard dental implants, you may make an excellent candidate for mini dental implants. Continue reading to learn more about this type of implant and the characteristics that make a good candidate.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants are a type of implant that’s used to stabilize a denture to the lower jaw. Mini dental implants are smaller than typical dental implants and have a diameter of approximately 1.8-3.3 millimeters. They are ideal for people who don’t have enough jawbone density to support a typical dental implant due to shrinkage over the years. Instead of having a replacement tooth screwed onto the end, they have a ball for you to secure your denture to it.
What Makes a Good Mini Dental Implant Candidate?
During your consultation with your dentist, it will be determined what tooth replacement option is most ideal for you. Here are some criteria that could indicate that mini dental implants are right for you:
- You’re Ineligible for Standard Dental Implants: If you don’t have a sufficient jawbone for traditional dental implants, mini dental implants could be a more successful long-term option.
- You’ve Been Wearing Dentures: If you’ve been wearing dentures for a while, it’s expected that your bone structure will change over time. This is why denture wearers require adjustments from time to time. Mini dental implants provide increased support and stability as compared to traditional dentures. This means less shifting.
- You’re in Good Health: No matter which type of dental implant you’re considering, it’s important to be in good overall health. If you have uncontrolled diabetes or are taking immunosuppression medication, you might be better off with an alternative option for now. If you have existing dental problems, like gum disease, you will need to complete treatment before you can get mini dental implants.
- You Want a Quick Treatment: The placement procedure for mini dental implants is less invasive, takes less time, and gives you a shorter recover period that getting traditional dental implants.
If you’re unable to get traditional dental implants, ask your dentist about mini dental implants. They may be the perfect option for you.
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph is an experienced dentist who has been practicing for over 25 years. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and has completed over 600 hours of continuing education, including state-of-the-art training in Trinon Dental Implants and Orthodontics. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the South Carolina Dental Association. For more information on tooth replacement options or to schedule a consultation as his office in Conway, visit his website or call (843) 488-4357.