The American Academy of Implant Dentistry recognizes mini-implants as ideal solutions for people who do not want traditional dental restorations. These dental replacements are ideal for people who cannot get traditional implants. Understanding what mini-implants are can help you prepare for this dental procedure. Here are the details.

What Mini-implants Are

These restorations are smaller than traditional dental implants. This means that the dentist does not need to embed the implants deep into the jawbone. Mini-implants look and function like traditional implants. They have titanium posts as thin as a toothpick, with a ball at the end. An O-ring connects the tooth to the titanium post, which the dentist embeds into the jaw.

Mini-implants can take the place of fixed crowns, dental bridges, and dentures. The titanium posts can attach the implants to your jawbone. Proper healing can integrate the posts into your body. Once the healing process is complete, the implants can mimic the appearance and functions of natural teeth.

Reasons for Getting Mini-implants

Your doctor may recommend mini-implants if you want to avoid traditional dental implant surgery. If you lack enough jawbone mass for conventional implants, you may want to say yes to mini-implants. You can also consider these implants if you do not want the painful surgery involved in the traditional procedure.

Mini-implants are smaller and easier to embed. They do not need thick jawbone mass. This allows elderly patients and those with thinned jawbones to have dental restorations. These small implants are more stable than dentures or dental bridges. Dentists also recommend mini-implants to patients with small mouths or teeth. Each implant can fit into narrow spaces in the mouth. This can prevent complications of tooth loss, including facial collapse.

You can chew, bite, and speak better with mini-implants. Eating in public will never be a problem. They are more secure and durable than other removable restorations. With this, you will never need to worry about your restorations slipping out or falling off. Smiling is not a problem with these implants. The stability they provide can improve your level of self-assurance.

The Procedure

The dentist will start by cutting through the gum tissue. This will expose the jawbone. Drilling the implant holes will be next. Then, the dentist will embed the mini titanium rods into your jawbone. Stitching the gum tissue will close the implant sites. The rods will need to integrate with your jawbone. After a period, the dentist will attach the abutments. Next will be the artificial crowns.

Aftercare Tips

Once you get your mini-implants, you will experience significant pain for days. Pain relievers can help you manage this discomfort. Avoiding sticky and hard foods is ideal. This will help ensure the stability and integration of your implants. Ice cream, smoothies, and mashed potatoes are easy to eat at this point.

Cleaning your mini-implants will be the same as cleaning your natural teeth. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help reduce sensitivity. Flossing every day will remove the food particles and bacteria between crowns. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help. Regular dental cleanings and checks can help lengthen the life of your mini-implants.

​​​​​​​Mini-implants can improve your dental health. At Sand Lake Dental, we help our patients regain their dental function and confidence with dental restorations. Please visit our clinic in Orlando, Florida, for an in-person consultation. Call us at 407-355-0608 to set an appointment or ask questions about our mini-implant packages.