28
Dec
Mini vs. Regular Dental Implants
Regular dental implants
Before a patient decides to talk to a dentist about any type of implant, it is worth discussing how regular dental implants function as part of a healthy set of teeth. After understanding this information, a patient will be better equipped to decide whether regular or mini implants would be of more benefit.</
What are regular dental implants?
An implant procedure involves a hypoallergenic titanium post being inserted into a patient’s jawbone. This post will hold an artificial tooth, and it will eventually fuse with the bone, which will grow back around and provide stability for the artificial tooth. These implants are usually composed of two pieces of titanium that, together, can be as large as five millimeters in diameter.
When are regular dental implants the right choice?
There are special circumstances that might warrant either an alternative solution to a missing tooth or a different type of implant. Those with extensive jawbone loss, chronic smokers, or patients with other concerns related to the jawbone may be better candidates for smaller dental implants.
Mini dental implants
Even if a patient is familiar with implants, the surgical process, and other options when it comes to replacing a missing tooth, choosing the type of implants can be the next step in learning about this procedure. Mini dental implants are often a good choice, but these are not for everybody.
What are mini dental implants?
Mini implants, unlike regular implants, are usually made of one piece of titanium that is smaller than three millimeters in diameter with a small ball at one end. The balls can be used to fit O-rings to stabilize a patient’s dentures if necessary. While mini implants typically involve the same type of surgery as regular implants, the procedure overall can be considered less invasive due to the implants’ size.
When are mini dental implants the right choice?
Mini implants can be used to replace any missing tooth, are easy to place and care for, and can be used in patients who suffer from extensive loss of jawbone. Individuals who choose the miniature version of dental implants may also notice that these devices are easier to clean and do not interfere as much with chewing. Mini implants are also an excellent choice for stabilizing and anchoring dentures.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Mini vs. Regular Dental Implants in Red Bluff, CA
Conclusion
While regular dental implants are possibly the more widely-known choice, there are several instances in which mini dental implants can be a better option. Ultimately, it is up to the dental provider to determine the right device for the patient, review the treatment options, and assist the patient in choosing the ideal type of implant.
Request an appointment or call Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc at (530) 527-6777 for an appointment in our Red Bluff office.
Randal Elloway, DABOI, FAAID
Dr. Elloway has a Bachelor’s in Biology from La Sierra University and a DDS from Loma Linda University, and brings over 30 years of dental experience to his practice in Red Bluff. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and Northern California Dental Society. Dr. Elloway is committed to continuous learning and compassionate care, and volunteers internationally to help needy patients.