Dental Implants vs. Mini Implants
Milwaukie, OR
Dental implants and mini implants have common similarities and perform similar functions. Both these implants have a titanium post that is inserted into the gum via surgery so that the prosthetic teeth can remain in place.
Even though titanium is a lightweight metal, it is strong and resilient. Moreover, the human body does not reject it even though it is a foreign object, which means that you do not have to worry about a reaction from the immune system.
Single-tooth implants and multiple-tooth implants require a titanium rod to be placed inside the gums, which eventually heals to form a permanent fixture in the jaw. Even though the tooth root is artificial, it has loads of advantages over traditional dentures that tend to slip out.
Traditional dentures can also cause bone deterioration because of the lack of tooth root stimulation, but dental implants boost bone growth by maintaining facial structure and, of course, your beautiful smile.
What makes dental implants different from mini implants is that mini implants can be used in cases where regular implants cannot provide a tooth replacement solution.
While dental implants have a diameter of approximately 3.25 to 5 millimeters, mini implants are much smaller, with a diameter of only 3mm.
Both these implants are also made slightly differently. While dental implants are made of titanium and require an abutment (tooth bridge) to keep the artificial tooth in place, mini implants have a ball-shaped tip that protrudes from the jaw and comes with an O-ring made of rubber that keeps the tooth in place.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
As long as individuals can get a routine tooth extraction, they are the perfect candidates for dental implants. It doesn’t matter whether you are looking for single-tooth implants or multiple-tooth implants; dental implants are great in most cases.
However, traditional dental implants require the jaw to be completely developed so that there is enough bone to support the implant. If this is not the case, our doctors at ComfortCare Dental recommend other options.
When to Choose a Mini Implant Over a Dental Implant
Dental implants are not for everyone, which is why mini implants were introduced. Since mini implants can fit into tinier areas, they can be used to replace broken premolars or incisors.
Moreover, mini implants are also recommended for patients who have existing medical conditions that would make dental implants risky.
Most dentists look at how an implant will attach to the jawbone and the rate of healing before recommending the right kind of implant to patients. Your medical history and current state of health will be looked at; if you have uncontrolled diabetes, immune deficiencies, connective-tissue disorder, or blood clotting issues, mini implants may be a better option for you.
Do you have questions about which kind of dental implant would suit your needs? Call (503)653-8320 to talk about your medical history, existing conditions, and future expectations.