Are Mini Dental Implants Right for You?

Dental implants are the gold standard way to replace missing teeth. However, not all implants are the same. There are certain patients that may qualify for a miniature version of traditional implants. If you qualify, mini dental implants can bring significant upfront advantages in terms procedure comfort, recovery and cost.

What are Mini Dental Implants?

Mini dental implants (MDIs) are smaller in diameter than traditional dental implants, and they are typically used to support dentures or to replace small missing teeth. Just like traditional implants, they are surgically placed into the jaw bone, where they will fuse over time and support a small dental restoration. Not all patients are candidates for mini dental implants.

Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

At Southern Oaks Family Dental Care, we are proud to offer a full menu of dental implant options, including mini dental implants. Here are some of the most common reasons why MDIs might be considered over traditional dental implants:

• Less invasive procedure: Because MDIs are smaller, the procedure to place them is less invasive than the procedure for traditional implants. This can mean less discomfort and a shorter recovery time.
• Reduced healing time: Because the procedure to place MDIs is less invasive, the healing time is typically shorter than with traditional implants. This can mean a faster return to normal activities.
• Lower cost: MDIs are often less expensive than traditional implants, which can make them a more affordable option for some patients.
• Smaller spaces: MDIs are ideal for areas where there is limited space, such as in the front of the mouth, where there may not be enough room for a traditional implant.
• Immediate use: Unlike traditional implants, MDIs can often be used immediately to stabilize dentures or to support a temporary crown.

MDIs can be a win-win solution for many patients who need teeth replacement. However, this type of implant dentistry won’t work for every patient. Our skilled implant dentist in Baton Rouge can determine whether or not a mini dental implant or traditional dental implant is best for you.

Drawbacks to Consider with MDIs

As with any restorative dentistry treatment, there are pros and cons. MDIs do have some drawbacks, especially for certain patients. If you are interested mini dental implants, here are some disadvantages to consider:

• Less stability: Because MDIs are smaller than traditional implants, they may not provide the same level of stability or support. This can lead to a higher risk of implant failure or movement over time.
• Limited lifespan: MDIs may not last as long as traditional implants. While traditional implants can last for decades or even a lifetime with proper care, MDIs may need to be replaced after a shorter period of time.
• Less versatile: MDIs may not be suitable for all patients or all types of restorations. Traditional implants can be used to support a wide range of restorations, including bridges and crowns, while MDIs are typically limited to denture stabilization or small tooth replacements.
• Bone loss: MDIs may contribute to bone loss over time, particularly if they are used to support dentures. This can lead to changes in the appearance of the face and jaw over time.

Ready to learn more about mini dental implants and decide if they are the optimal choice for your new smile? Call Southern Oaks Family Dental Care. We are proud to be a trusted restorative dentist for the greater Baton Rouge community.