If you are an adult investigating procedures for replacing a missing tooth, dental implants may be the ideal option for supporting an artificial tooth in an otherwise healthy smile. Because implants can be affordable and nearly invisible when placed correctly, this procedure is popular with young people and older individuals alike.
Before a patient decides to talk to a dentist about any type of implant, it is worth discussing how regular dental implants function as part of a healthy set of teeth. After understanding this information, a patient will be better equipped to decide whether regular or mini implants would be of more benefit.
An implant procedure involves a hypoallergenic titanium post being inserted into a patient’s jawbone. This post will hold an artificial tooth, and it will eventually fuse with the bone, which will grow back around and provide stability for the artificial tooth. These implants are usually composed of two pieces of titanium that, together, can be as large as five millimeters in diameter.
There are special circumstances that might warrant either an alternative solution to a missing tooth or a different type of implant. Those with extensive jawbone loss, chronic smokers, or patients with other concerns related to the jawbone may be better candidates for smaller dental implants.
Even if a patient is familiar with implants, the surgical process, and other options when it comes to replacing a missing tooth, choosing the type of implants can be the next step in learning about this procedure. Mini dental implants are often a good choice, but these are not for everybody.
Mini implants, unlike regular implants, are usually made of one piece of titanium that is smaller than three millimeters in diameter with a small ball at one end. The balls can be used to fit O-rings to stabilize a patient’s dentures if necessary. While mini implants typically involve the same type of surgery as regular implants, the procedure overall can be considered less invasive due to the implants’ size.
Mini implants can be used to replace any missing tooth, are easy to place and care for, and can be used in patients who suffer from extensive loss of jawbone. Individuals who choose the miniature version of dental implants may also notice that these devices are easier to clean and do not interfere as much with chewing. Mini implants are also an excellent choice for stabilizing and anchoring dentures.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Mini vs. Regular Dental Implants in Culver City, CA
While regular dental implants are possibly the more widely-known choice, there are several instances in which mini dental implants can be a better option. Ultimately, it is up to the dental provider to determine the right device for the patient, review the treatment options, and assist the patient in choosing the ideal type of implant.
Request an appointment or call Culver City Dental at 310-272-5405 for an appointment in our Culver City office.
Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, but they do not work on their own. An implant crown serves as the final step in this process, completing the restoration and restoring smile function, appearance, and confidence. They mimic the appearance and strength of natural teeth to integrate with the rest of…
Do you need a dental implant? Read on to learn more about this type of dental restoration. Removable partial dentures and a fixed dental bridge not supported by implants are not considered permanent restorations. However, a dental implant restoration is considered permanent, as it essentially uses the same structure as a natural tooth.The benefits of…
Dental implants are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth in general dentistry nowadays. These are screws or rods (typically made out of titanium) that can serve as artificial teeth roots. Oral restorations like crowns are fitted to implants to replace missing teeth. Implants are constructed to last a lifetime, but the…
When you don't provide the proper denture care for your dentures, you can get a bad case of denture odor. Odors are not only unpleasant to you but also unpleasant for those around you. It may have an effect on your eating habits and oral health as well. It's not unusual for dentures to start…
Dental bridges can replace missing teeth effectively and often without needing surgery. Not only will this restore the smile, but it also helps patients avoid the negative oral health effects of missing teeth. A general dentist can determine whether a patient is a good candidate for bridges in a consultation. However, learning the basics can…