Mini dental implants work in exactly the same way as ordinary dental implants, with metal rods inserted surgically into the jawbone, before securing the dentures in place. They provide a more comfortable and secure fit and guarantee fewer problems with eating and speaking. However, unlike normal implants mini implants are only used to secure full sets of dentures, rather than individual false teeth. The smaller rods are placed at intervals in the jawbone and the traditional dental plate is then attached to them.
Who is an ideal candidate for mini implants?
This makes mini implants an ideal treatment for someone who has an old set of dentures, still in good condition, but have become loose. The old plate can be adapted to fasten to the mini implants, meaning that you don’t have to pay for a new set of false teeth, only the cost of the oral surgery for the insertion of the implants and the cost of adapting your old dentures to their new home.
What are the advantages of mini implants?
Unlike false teeth attached to normal sized implants, full sets of dentures affixed to mini implants can be easily removed for cleaning. In fact, daily removal for cleaning is recommended as pieces of food can easily become stuck around the metal rods, which can cause infection and gum disease.
Am I suitable for mini implants?
In some cases, mini implants are a better option for the patient than the full sized version. If the jawbone has been damaged or weakened by injury, disease or missing teeth, and bone grafts are not an option, mini implants can sometimes be used. The rods used to secure the false teeth are smaller, so less jawbone is required to provide the root for the implant. However, there are some people who will find that they will never be suitable candidates for implants, no matter how small the metal rods used, because of the structure or composition of their jaw.