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When Regular Implants Won’t Work, Mini Implants Can Save Your Smile

When you are missing a tooth, you really do need a tooth replacement. Dental implants are a great choice, because they hold a natural-looking dental crown in the space and are one of the most durable, long-lasting dental treatments you can get. But not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure. Because the implant includes a titanium root surgically placed in your jawbone, the bone there must be thick enough to support it. That’s where mini dental implants procedure can be used instead of traditional dental implants.

When Would Mini Implants Be Preferred?

Mini dental implants procedure use a titanium root just like with regular dental implants, but the root is much smaller. If you need a durable replacement for a missing tooth but your jawbone is too thin at that spot, a mini implant can often work. Plus, not all teeth are the same size. If you need to replace a thin tooth like an incisor, a mini implant could work better for you. Mini implants can also be used with dentures.

How Do They Work With Dentures?

Dentures are a great way to replace a lot of missing teeth, even all of the teeth on the top or bottom of your mouth. But between messy adhesives and an ill-fitting base, dentures can move around in your mouth. In some cases, they can even fall out while you’re eating. Mini implants can be used to hold onto the dentures securely, ensuring they will not come out unexpectedly.

How Are Mini Implants Placed?

As with regular implants, placing a mini implant is a surgical procedure. First, Dr. McDonald will make an incision in the gums above the old tooth’s socket. Then he will skillfully place the titanium root in the jawbone. You’ll need to wait a few weeks while the site heals, and then you will come back to our Alma, MI dental office to have the dental crown, dental bridge, or dentures attached to the roots.

What’s The Difference Between Regular And Mini Dental Implants?

The biggest difference is the size. Regular dental implants are much bigger and require more space in the smile as well as more bone tissue in the jaw. However, there are a few other differences you should know:

  • Less healing time: With a regular implant, you might have to wait up to four months before the site has healed enough to place the crown or bridge. But with mini implants, you usually have to wait only a few weeks.
  • Potentially less permanent: One downside of mini implants is that they often do not last as long as traditional implants. Mini implants can last 10+ years, whereas regular implants can last more than 20.
  • Needs less bone: Because mini implants are smaller, they can be used where regular implants are too big to be safely and successfully placed in your jawbone.
  • More affordable: Mini implants are much more affordable than regular ones.

With our mini dental implants procedure, you can replace missing teeth safely and hold onto dentures securely. Call us today at (989)-773-2133 or fill out our online form to set up an appointment or ask any questions.