Dental Implants vs Mini Implants
Edmonds, WA
 Dentists today are well-versed in using various tooth replacement options, such as bridges, dentures, and dental implants, to restore a patient's smile after tooth loss. At Perrinville Family Dentistry, Gary J. Jacky, DMD will discuss both regular and mini dental implants with you if you require one.
What Are Dental Implants?
One option for replacing missing teeth is placing an implant in the jawbone. For dental implant restoration, Gary J. Jacky, DMD will install an abutment (anchor for a tooth bridge) into your jawbone, and after three to six months, the bone will grow around that abutment.
After the abutment heals Gary J. Jacky, DMD will expose the implant and insert a tiny post into it to hold the replacement teeth. Dental implants are an alternative to dentures since they stay in place without the need for adhesives or adjustments. If you want a replacement tooth that will last and look great, the best option is a traditional dental implant.
Unlike regular implants, mini implants take up much less space in the jaw. They are an option for patients with less bone density for a traditional implant. Mini dental implants require a less invasive surgical procedure than standard implants. A mini implant contains a tiny ball at the tip, so a separate abutment is not required to hold the new tooth. Because of this, however, mini implants cannot replace the structural integrity of regular implants. The jawbone supports mini implants to a lesser extent than full-size implants. Consequently, this is generally only ideal if you have an insufficient vertical bone to sustain the implant.
Furthermore, mini implants are not a good choice if you grind your teeth in your sleep. Tooth grinding can shorten the lifespan of your implants. Mini implants are a good substitute if a regular implant cannot be placed due to low bone density, but regular dental implants are the superior choice and are well worth the extra cost.
Both titanium and zirconia are common choices for dental implant materials. The chemical and physical properties of new implant materials are the subject of intensive study and testing.
Dental bridges have a lower out-of-pocket cost and are typically covered by dental insurance. But bridges only last for roughly eight years on average and need specialized care to last that long. Dental implants stay longer and cause less damage to the surrounding teeth, so they may be the superior alternative if your health is sound.
Care for dental implants is equivalent to that of natural teeth. Always use fluoride toothpaste when brushing.
If you want your dental implants to last as long as possible, it's important to take care of them by visiting us at Perrinville Family Dentistry every six months for cleanings and checkups, brushing and flossing twice a day, and refraining from biting your nails or chewing on extremely hard objects.
Call Today and Schedule an Appointment!
Please get in touch with us at (425) 616-0620 if you are weighing the pros and cons of dental implants vs. mini implants. Gary J. Jacky, DMD and at Perrinville Family Dentistry will help you decide which restorative option will best suit your needs. |
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(425) 616-0620 
Gary J. Jacky, DMD