If you’ve lost one or more of your teeth, chances are you are probably looking for a tooth replacement solution that restores your smile to its former glory as much as possible. 

While dental implants may be the solution, your dentist may have told you that you don’t have enough bone density in your jaw. Or perhaps, you don’t want to get implants because it involves invasive procedures. And of course, dentures are out of the picture because you find them loose and uncomfortable. 

If this sounds like you, then mini dental implants might just be your saving grace. 

What are Mini Dental Implants? 

As the name suggests, mini dental implants are small dental implants that serve as an alternative for those who don’t want to or can’t replace the gaps in their smile through conventional restoration methods. 

Unlike dental implants that include three components (the implant post, the abutment and the prosthetic tooth), mini dental implants consist of a one-piece screw with a diameter of about 3 millimetres and a ball-shaped end that protrudes from the jawbone. 

Typically about half the size of dental implants, these mini implants are less painful and invasive. Don’t have enough jawbone density? No worries because they don’t need the same amount of jawbone density as a traditional dental implant, meaning you don’t have to worry about bone grafting procedures! 

All in all, mini implants are a great solution for those with fewer teeth, smaller mouths or inadequate bone density for traditional implants. 

What are the Benefits of Mini Implants? 

• Less Invasive: Unlike traditional implants, they don’t involve invasive procedures. Mini dental implants are placed over the gum surface when placed into the bone and can be placed under local anaesthesia.

• Less Expensive: Costing half or a quarter of dental implants, mini implants are less expensive. 

• Faster Recovery Times: Since the procedure is less invasive, you have a faster recovery. 

• Requires Less Jawbone Density: Much smaller in size than dental implants, mini implants don’t need the same levels of jawbone density. So, even if you are suffering from bone loss, mini implants can be suitable for you. 

• Long-Lasting: With proper care and maintenance, mini dental implants can be long-lasting and are more permanent than dentures or bridges.  

• Less Painful: In comparison to dental implants, the placement of mini dental implants is less painful. 

Mini Dental Implant Procedure 

If you are considering getting mini implants, then you’d want to know what the process looks like. Here’s how mini implants are placed: 

• Local anaesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort and you will only feel a sting.

• Using X-rays to determine the perfect location, your dentist will drill a small hole of about 3mm or less. 

• Your mini implant will be put over the gum surface when placed into the bone. 

• Using specialised tools, the dentist will tighten it in place.   

• The prosthetic tooth will then be attached to complete your smile. 

One of the best parts about this procedure is that mini dental implants can be completed in just one visit to the dentist. Plus, with no sutures or stitches needed, you can typically resume your normal daily activities in a day or two after the procedure. 

Caring for Mini Dental Implants 

Caring for your mini dental implants is very important to ensure implant success. However, this doesn’t mean there are extensive and time-consuming routines involved. All you need to do is simply take care of them as you would your natural teeth. Here’s how: 

• Brush your teeth gently twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Floss at least once a day. 

• Visit the dentist for routine check-ups every 6 months to keep everything in tip-top shape. 

• Use a fluoride toothpaste if your dentist recommends. 

 

If you are looking for a less-invasive, cost-effective and quick yet effective way to replace missing teeth, then mini dental implants could be your solution. Whether you want to regain your confidence or a hassle-free solution, mini implants have you covered. 

Want to know if they are suitable for you? Our dentist at Brisbane Implants can help you figure out if they are the right choice for you.