If you are considering getting dentures or replacing a missing tooth, a mini dental implant may be for you. This small dental implant has the same function as a traditional dental implant. You might be wondering if the two have that many differences. Read on to learn more about what makes these two types of implants different.
What is a traditional dental implant?
If a patient is considering getting dental implants, a dentist will usually first consider traditional implants. This type of implant is the standard for replacing teeth. It can restore the appearance and the function of one tooth or an entire set. An implant is designed to last for the rest of a patient’s life.
Unfortunately, traditional implants require a patient to have a strong amount of bone structure in the mouth. If a patient has experienced bone loss, they may need to have bone grafting done before getting implants. This is an invasive, time-consuming process that is very painful. There will be a greater amount of time before a patient can get their replacement teeth. However, mini dental implants usually do not require any bone grafting.
Traditional vs. the mini dental implant
In general, the main difference between the mini dental implant and the traditional dental implant is the size. Similarly to traditional dental implants, a mini dental implant consists of an abutment, the crown and the implant itself. However, the mini dental implant is only about half the size of a traditional one. The size difference means that a patient will need two mini implants to equal one larger one.
Because each implant is taking a greater amount of force during chewing, the jawbone can experience more stress. However, a dentist may recommend that a patient get several mini implants to counteract this fact. Even if patients have a lot of missing bone, they can still get several mini implants. When the bone is missing, it is easier to distribute several smaller implants than one larger one. A patient may have either partial or complete dentures placed on the mini implants.
Because a mini dental implant is smaller, a patient will only need to have one procedure to place it. Having a traditional implant often requires one surgery to place it and another surgery to place the artificial tooth. Because a patient only needs to have one surgery, the recovery time after a mini dental implant is shorter. This will allow a patient to get back to eating and talking naturally sooner.
Choose mini dental implants
Mini dental implants can help your smile be both beautiful and more functional. If you are considering getting a mini dental implant, you should consult a dentist. The condition of your teeth will determine whether or not mini implants are right for you. Getting a consultation appointment at a dentist’s office can help you decide. The dentist can do X-rays and perform an oral examination of your mouth.
Request an appointment here: https://newyorkdmd.com or call New York DMD at (917) 284-9680 for an appointment in our New York office.
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