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The American Dental Association says that dental implants are a good type of restoration to replace missing teeth. A traditional implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone (upper or lower) and serves as a stable anchor for a prosthetic tooth.
While implants are a super option for most people who’ve lost teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, not everyone is a candidate. You may be reluctant to have the surgery required for implant insertion or lack adequate bone mass in your jaw to support the implant post.
Luckily, you don’t have to just settle for a gapped smile. Mini dental implants are an option. Mini implants work just like traditional implants. They can anchor implant-supported dentures or serve as a solid foundation for a crown.
At Southern California Center for Surgical Arts, Dr. Husam Elias -- who is both a dentist and a cosmetic and maxillofacial surgeon -- offers mini implants as a cost-effective and less-invasive alternative to traditional implants. Before you sign up, learn how mini implants differ from traditional dental implants to help decide if they’re right for you.
Mini implants have a slightly smaller form than traditional dental implants, but are generally identical in structure. They consist of a titanium post and a rubber O-ring that attaches the tooth to the post. Mini implants measure just 1.8-3.3 millimeters wide while traditional implants are about 3.4-5.8 millimeters wide. Both types are 10-15 millimeters long.
With traditional implants, you generally have to commit to at least three major appointments over the course of several months before you get your permanent, functional implant. If you need bone grafting or other procedures to support the implant post, the process of traditional implants may be even more involved.
Mini implants require just one appointment to insert. The process usually requires local anesthesia only and needs no sutures. You walk away from our office with a smile you’re ready to flash in just about two hours.
For people who are compromised and can’t tolerate the initial appointment to place traditional implants, mini implants are a good option. It only takes a few minutes and no incision to place mini implants.
Because the implants are smaller, you can have some bone loss and still successfully receive mini implants. This means you don’t have to undergo bone grafts to get a sturdy replacement tooth.
Mini implants are a less expensive option, especially if you need the additional step of bone grafting to accept a traditional implant. For patients who want the enormous benefit of implants, but just can’t handle the expense, mini implants may be the best option.
Traditional dental implants can last 30 years or longer – really your whole life. Mini dental implants will need to be replaced after about 10 years.
At Southern California Center for Surgical Arts, we are dedicated to your oral surgery needs. Call our office in Sherman Oaks, California, today for an appointment or book online.
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