Determining Whether Mini Dental Implants Are Right for You

Dental implants have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry. However, in order to qualify for traditional implants, patients must have enough healthy jawbone volume to support the surgically embedded posts. Thanks to advancements in implant dentistry, the skilled doctors at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates can use specially designed mini dental implants to help patients in the Montgomery, AL, area enjoy the unparalleled benefits of implant-supported restorations. To learn more about this advanced restorative treatment, contact our office today.

Mini dental implants were designed as an effective restorative solution for patients who have been precluded from traditional implant surgery because of insufficient jawbone density. After a patient experiences tooth loss, the surrounding area of the jaw will begin to deteriorate. This bone loss can be especially prevalent in elderly patients, and it can eventually lead to further tooth loss. Mini implants have a smaller diameter than traditional types, so they require less healthy bone to be placed. Once they have healed, mini implants serve the role of tooth roots and help to provide incredible support for permanent restorations. 

Mini dental implants offer several advantages for the look and function of a patient's smile. Securing your restorations with mini implants means they will not slip or fall out of place, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. With mini dental implants, patients with limited jawbone density can avoid the need for bone grafting or sinus lift surgery and still enjoy implant-supported restorations. In many cases, we can provide you with a temporary restoration on the day of your surgery, so you can enjoy restored dental function as the implants heal. Additionally, one of the most significant benefits of dental implants is an overall improvement in a patient's oral health. By fusing with the natural bone, your implants will help to return stimulation to the jaw and surrounding tissues, halting bone loss. Implants are the only restorative treatment that offer this benefit. 

Like traditional posts, mini implants are designed to support permanent crowns, bridges, or dentures after tooth loss. We can evaluate your candidacy for mini implants during a personal consultation. Using x-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, the doctor will assess the health of your jawbone and identify potential placement locations. Candidates should be in good overall health and not be suffering from significant decay or periodontal disease. Mini implants may be a good solution for patients who are on a budget, since these smaller restorations often cost less than traditional types. However, candidates should be aware that mini implants do not offer the same level of stability or durability as traditional implants. 

At Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, our skilled doctors provide unparalleled dental care in a warm, welcoming environment. We work with individual implants patients to design restorative treatment plans that will best meet their needs. To review your candidacy for mini dental implants, contact our office today and schedule a personal consultation.