Dental Implants vs Mini Implants
Battle Ground, WA
 Tooth loss can lead to severe issues in oral health and can result in more loss of teeth. However, it is now a common practice to replace missing teeth through dental implants. At Excel Dental, if you need dental implants, your dentist will present you with two options: traditional or mini dental implants.
What Are Traditional Dental Implants?
Traditionally, a dental implant procedure includes inserting a replacement tooth into the jawbone at the site of the missing teeth. A traditional dental implant consists of an implant post, a lower abutment or anchor, and a crown. Dental implants are more secure and long lasting than dentures, and are recommended by experts for missing tooth replacement.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Mini dental implants are a smaller variant of the traditional implants. There are many conditions that must be met to be eligible for a traditional dental implant procedure. One of the main criteria is to have enough bone mass in your jaw. In case a patient does not meet the criteria, they might need bone grafts that could take several months. However, an alternative is mini dental implants. These implants consist of a small titanium rod which is 1.8 to 3.0 mm in diameter. In comparison, a regular dental implant is 3.4 to 5.8 mm wide.
What to Expect From a Mini Dental Implant Procedure
The mini dental implant process is similar to a regular dental implant procedure. First, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to the surgical site. Once you are numb, the dentist will make incisions in the gums, exposing the jawbone. Dr. Burke Jardine will then drill into the jawbone and insert the mini dental implants. Once the mini dental implants are in place, we will stitch the incision around the post, leaving the top part uncovered. Then, a permanent tooth is placed on top of the abutment.
Differences Between Regular Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants
Although both implants are options to replace missing teeth, there are many differences between the two dental implants, including:
| • |
Mini dental implants can be used with less jawbone density.
|
| • |
Mini implants are much smaller than traditional implants and can be used for smaller teeth.
|
| • |
Mini implants use O-rings on a ball instead of screws.
|
| • |
The surgical procedure for mini dental implants is simpler and shorter.
|
| • |
Traditional dental implants are more durable and long-lasting. |
Get Help from an Experienced Dentist
Traditional and mini dental implants have their own benefits and are excellent options for replacing missing teeth. However, they also have their criteria.
Therefore, you must consult with an experienced dentist to find out which of the two is a better choice for you. To talk to an experienced dentist, call Excel Dental at (360) 369-3930 and talk to Dr. Burke Jardine. Once you set an appointment, you can ask any questions about dental implants and what to expect from the procedure. |
