Mini dental implants, sometimes referred to as MDI or narrow-diameter implants, are an excellent option if you are looking to replace lost teeth in areas with less bone volume.
Mini dental implants are used in the same ways as conventional implants and have similar results, but the overall treatment methods are faster and less complex. This makes them a good choice for people who are looking for a more affordable or less invasive option for tooth replacement.
Another way that mini implants shine is when a space is small and not wide enough to support a regular implant. In these specific situations, mini implants can save the day when there are limited restorative options.
However, it is important to note that mini dental implants are not an easier or “cheaper” way of getting implants done. While they may be a more economical option for replacing teeth, it is imperative to remember that mini implants have slightly higher failure rates and sometimes require additional care and repairs.
Even though they are in no way a substandard treatment, conventional implants typically deliver significantly better long-term results because of their strength and design. This is why they are the first choice for replacing missing teeth.
If you are considering mini dental implants, it is important to talk to our dentists about your individual needs and circumstances. They will be able to help you determine if mini implants are the right choice for you and discuss the risks and benefits of this type of treatment.
The Process for Mini Dental Implants
The process for installing mini or MDI implants is not unlike the process for installing regular dental implants, but because mini implants are smaller, the procedure takes less time, is less invasive, and has a shorter recovery period. In some cases, immediate loading of teeth is also an option.
Here are the steps involved in the procedure:
Typically, you will experience some discomfort following the procedure, but pain is typically well-controlled using nothing more than over-the-counter pain medications.
The benefits of mini dental implants include:
If you are considering mini dental implants, it is important to talk to our dentists about your individual needs and circumstances. They will be able to help you determine if mini implants are the right choice for you and discuss the risks and benefits of this type of treatment.
Our dentists can evaluate your teeth, jaw, mouth, and overall health to determine whether you are a good candidate for mini implants or an alternative solution.
Mini dental implants, also known as MDI or mini implants, are an option if you are looking to replace lost teeth but you don’t want to undergo the surgery for regular implants or lack the bone mass to support regular implants. MDI implants may be a possibility even if you have a lot of missing bone, because several mini implants can be placed in lieu of larger conventional implants.
Mini implants may also be a possibility if you have small teeth, are in need of front tooth replacements, or you have teeth in a narrow space. Mini dental implants can offer great solutions for these situations where a person otherwise could not have dental implants.
Here are some of the factors that our dentists will consider when making their determination:
If you are interested in mini dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our dentists. They will be able to answer any questions you have and discuss the benefits and risks of this type of treatment.
There are quite a few well-respected companies that manufacture mini implants. More than likely, our dentists will mention one of these brand names when discussing mini implants with you.
Almost all of the dental implants they produce are manufactured using surgical grade titanium alloys, which are similar in composition to the materials used to create artificial joints.
Titanium is ideal for dental implants because it is:
In addition, osteocytes (bone cells) integrate well with titanium and tend to grow towards the metal itself. This mechanism is the reason mini dental implants can withstand chewing forces over long periods of time.
Our dentists will be able to discuss the different mini dental implant brands and materials with you so you can make an informed decision about the best option for your individual needs.
Preoperative Advice and Tips for Mini Dental Implants
Prior to the procedure, our dentists may prescribe specific medications or ask you to stop taking certain medications. They will also give you a list of do’s and don’ts to follow.
It is important that you follow all of our dentists’ instructions precisely because each directive is specifically designed to increase the chances of a successful procedure.
Here are some additional tips for the day of your mini dental implant procedure:
We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with mini dental implants!
Generally speaking, mini implants require the same level of bone quality as regular dental implants, but less bone volume overall. Proper diagnosis and pre-procedure planning are still essential to the successful placement of mini implants. Not every patient is a good candidate for mini implants, and the initial case selection is an important step in ensuring long-term success.
Our dentists now have amazingly advanced technologies available in the office that aid in diagnosis and planning, including cone beam or CBCT imaging.
The 3-D images allow our dentists to completely evaluate your bone structures and produce the best possible plan for your treatment.
For instance, bone quality and quantity can be observed and measured precisely so that the correct implant design can be chosen. The use of cone beam imaging or other CT scans leads to fewer risks, safer implant procedures, and better outcomes.
Here are some of the benefits of using cone beam imaging or other CT scans for mini dental implants:
If you are considering mini dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our dentists. They will be able to evaluate your bone structures and discuss the benefits and risks of this type of treatment. They will also be able to determine if you are a good candidate for mini dental implants and whether or not you need to have a cone beam imaging or other CT scan.
This is the most common type of anesthesia used for mini dental implants. It numbs the treatment area intraorally, making the procedure pain-free.
This type of sedation helps you to relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure. You will be awake during the procedure, but you will not remember it.
This type of anesthesia puts you to sleep during the procedure. It is only used if you have a high level of anxiety or if the procedure is very complex.
Here are some of the factors that will be considered when determining the best anesthesia option for you:
Are Mini Dental Implants a Same-Day Procedure?
Usually, yes. The process of installing mini dental implants is faster and less invasive than traditional implants, and mini dental implants (MDIs) can sometimes be placed and restored in one visit. This “Teeth in a Day” procedure is one of the main benefits of using mini dental implants.
Some of the advantages of mini dental implants include:
However, it is important to note that not all mini dental implant procedures can be completed in one day. The decision of whether or not a same-day procedure is possible will depend on a number of factors, including the number of implants being placed, the amount of bone available, and your overall health.
If you are considering mini dental implants, it is important to talk to us about your individual needs and circumstances. They will be able to assess your suitability for a same-day procedure and discuss the risks and benefits of this type of treatment.
The process of installing mini dental implants is a little bit quicker and easier than installing traditional dental implants. In some cases, it can be completed in one office visit. Mini dental implants (MDIs) are placed in the jaws using more conservative surgical approaches, which leads to less trauma and reduces post-procedure discomfort and overall recovery times.
Here are the steps involved in the mini dental implant procedure:
The entire procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. In some cases, it may take longer if multiple implants are being placed or if there are any complications.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and swelling. Your dentist will prescribe medication to help you manage these symptoms. You will also need to avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
The healing time for mini dental implants is typically 4-6 weeks. During this time, the mini implants will osseointegrate, or fuse to the jawbone. Once the implants are osseointegrated, they can be restored with crowns or bridges.
If you are considering mini dental implants, it is important to talk to us about your individual needs and circumstances. They will be able to assess your suitability for this type of treatment and discuss the risks and benefits.
Proper Upkeep, Issues with Recovery, and Peri-implantitis
Mini dental implants can fail, but this is rare. If a mini implant does fail, it can usually be replaced easily. Our dentists expect these rare failures and actually plan on secondary replacements when using mini implants. Smoking and underlying health issues are factors that can contribute to the failure of mini implants.
Peri-implantitis is a condition that can occur in the tissues around dental implants. It is characterized by inflammation and progressive loss of supporting bone. The onset of peri-implantitis can occur early during follow-up and often progresses in a non-linear and accelerating pattern. There is evidence that patients who exhibit poor plaque control skills and are less diligent about maintenance care have an increased risk of developing peri-implantitis.
To help prevent peri-implantitis, it is important to:
With proper care, mini dental implants can provide you with many years of healthy and functional teeth.
Post-procedure care is imperative to the successful healing of mini implants. After leaving our dentists’ office, relax at home for the remainder of the day. Avoid hot and solid foods while your mouth is still numb, and do not use a straw. Also, avoid aerobic exercise or any other strenuous activity for at least three days afterwards. Finally, maintain a diet of soft foods for at least several weeks following the procedure and avoid any foods that are hard or crunchy.
You’ll also want to avoid brushing, flossing, and using a Waterpik in the area of the surgery until our dentists instruct you to do so. Of course, you’ll want to maintain normal oral hygiene in the rest of your mouth.
Our dentists may also instruct you to rinse post-surgically with saltwater to promote healing, while the oral rinse Peridex™ may be prescribed to promote antimicrobial cleansing of the surgical site and reduce the chance of infection. A natural or holistic rinse from StellaLife® may also be recommended. Practitioners are using these products more and more often to promote soft tissue or gingival healing with impressive results.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and successful healing process for your mini dental implants.
Mini dental implants (MDIs) can be a great option for replacing missing teeth. However, it is important to take steps to prevent them from failing.
One of the biggest risk factors for mini implant failure is smoking. Smoking constricts blood vessels, which can reduce the amount of blood flow to the implant site. This can make it difficult for the implant to osseointegrate, or fuse to the bone.
Another important factor to consider is how you use your MDIs. You should avoid chewing directly on your MDIs for at least a few months after installation. This will give the implants time to heal and become fully osseointegrated.
Our dentists can provide you with more specific instructions on how to care for your MDIs after surgery. They can also help you develop a plan to quit smoking if you are a smoker.
Here are some other tips to help prevent mini implant failure:
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your MDIs last for many years to come.
Bellagio Dental Implant Center
Is home to your trusted periodontist and dentist
in North Palm Beach, FL.
Whether you need a routine cleaning or veneers, we offer many services to put a bright smile on your face! We accept most insurances and PPO insurance, plus we offer in-house discount plans and complimentary services for new patients.
