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.
Regular dental implants
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.
What are regular dental implants?
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.
When are regular dental implants the right choice?
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.
Mini 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.
What are mini dental implants?
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.
When are mini dental implants the right choice?
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.
Conclusion
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 About Dental Care at 435-359-0147 for an appointment in our St. George office.
Recent Posts
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…
Dental implants are among the most popular missing teeth replacement options available in general dentistry. They are the only oral prosthetics that replace missing teeth and their roots, which means they preserve bone tissues in the jaw. Bone tissue loss typically takes place when teeth fall out due to the bone tissues not getting the…
If you have missing teeth, there are multiple replacement options from which you can choose. Dental implants are one, and they are a popular choice for various reasons. Although implants may be an effective treatment method, they are not for everyone. Therefore, you should consider the benefits and other information before making a decision.The implant…