The Difference Between Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants Lincolnwood, IL
Many have found increased confidence, improved daily function, and better oral health through teeth replacement with implants or mini dental implants. We can help patients determine the most effective option for their needs. By learning more about possible replacement options during a consultation, we can help patients determine which option will give them a smile they desire.
During a consultation, we will take the time to answer questions about the process. Everyone should feel confident when smiling in public, and no one should feel insecure about imperfections caused by missing teeth. Give us a call at (773) 733-5880 to learn more about implants and mini dental implants for teeth replacement.
Understanding Mini Dental Implants
You can achieve a more attractive smile, address oral health concerns, and improve overall mouth function through teeth replacement with dramatically more economical mini dental implants. Mini dental implants are a type of dental implant that is used to support dentures, bridges, or a crown. Mini dental implants are available at Raymond G Hatland DDS in the Lincolnwood office. You can learn more about mini dental implants and what steps are involved in the treatment process during your initial consultation.
The most significant difference between mini implants and traditional implants is the diameter size, giving them their name. In most cases, traditional dental implants are typically between 4 and 6 mm wide, whereas mini-implants range from 2 to 3 mm wide. The increased width of the traditional dental implant makes it able to handle a heavier amount of force. This can be compensated for by using larger or extra mini implants. Placing mini dental implants will also have differences from the traditional procedure. In general, the mini dental implant procedure is far less invasive, and can be done more quickly with very low disturbances to the jaw and patient.
“In most cases, traditional dental implants are typically between 4 and 6 mm wide, whereas mini-implants range from 2 to 3 mm wide.”
Choosing Between Traditional Implants and Mini Dental Implants
Mini Implants |
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1. Placing mini-implants is a non-surgical procedure without the need for cutting your gums and exposing your alveolar bone. |
2. Very low patient stress or trauma. |
3. Can be placed by a trained General Dentist. |
4. Shorter appointment time for one or multiple implants. |
5. Little or no post operative pain. |
6. Mini-implants are 50% integrated into the bone at the time of placement. They can be gently used immediately and they are fully integrated in 3 to 4 weeks. |
7. The cost difference can be huge; a mini-implant and crown can be as low as $2,100 to $2,600. |
8. For multiple teeth implants are very strong. |
Traditional Implants |
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1. Placing traditional implants is a surgical procedure requiring exposing bone and reducing or flattening the bony ridge. Sutures are needed to re-cover the bone. |
2. Can be more stressful or traumatic. |
3. Can require using an oral surgeon. |
4. More complicated surgical requiring more time to place implant and many months of healing time. |
5.Some post-operative pain is expected. |
6. Traditional implants have no bone integration at the time of the appointment. They are completely covered and tend to be buried under the gums for up to 6 months. |
7. The cost of one traditional implant, abutment and crown is between $3,900 to $6,500. |
8. Traditional implants are sturdier because of their extra width. |
Candidates For Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants are commonly used to support dentures and prevent bone loss. However, they may also be a good option (sometimes the only possible option) for a fixed dental bridge or crown as well. Mini dental implants work in the same way as traditional implants, but the placement process is far less invasive and requires less supporting bone. Mini dental implants are a versatile solution capable of treating a wide range of issues, from single tooth replacement to supporting full dentures or a more economical support for a multi-tooth fixed bridge. Mini dental implants can be an effective option for patients who do not have enough dense bone or width in the jaw to support traditional implants.
The American Academy of Implant Dentistry explains that a bone graft procedure can strengthen the jawbone for traditional implants. However, not every patient is a candidate for regular dental implants. This is where mini dental implants come in as a recommended alternative. Mini dental implants are often recommended for patients with small tooth space and/or a narrow-ridge, have lost a lot of bone, need replacement of front teeth, and want a full smile quickly.
“Mini dental implants are commonly used to stabilize and hold dentures as well as prevent bone loss.”
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
Understanding the benefits of each treatment option helps patients make an informed decision. The benefits of mini dental implants include the following:
- Less invasive procedure. For traditional dental implants, the procedure is much more invasive. In contrast, mini implants are easier for a trained dentist to place and require no cutting of the gums or exposing bone.
- No need for bone grafting. Mini dental implants are sometimes an option in instances where there is not enough bone width for traditional implants.
- Fewer complications. The risks of oral infection, implant failure, or longer recovery times are often less significant with mini dental implants.
- Comfortable and convenient. Mini implant supported crowns look, feel, and function similar to a natural tooth.
“Mini dental implants are sometimes an option in instances where there is not enough dense bone or width for traditional implants.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Google: The Difference Between Traditional Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants in Lincolnwood, IL
Implants Can Prevent Tooth and Bone Loss
Implants, both traditional and mini, are of the greatest advancements in dentistry as they preserve the jawbone, do not decay, and function just like natural teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), an implant is so strong because of osseointegration, the process in which surrounding bone actually grows intimately around it and holds it in place. This causes bone stimulation, preservation and strengthening. Many times implant supported fixed Bridges can include natural teeth that can increase the strength and longevity of both the teeth and implants. The implants stimulate bone growth, preservation and strengthening.
Bone atrophy refers to the deterioration of the underlying jawbone. Dental implants prevent bone atrophy the same way natural roots do: by sending bone stimulating signals to the surrounding bone. The implant acts as a stimulator to promote bone generation and keep them functioning properly. Both traditional and mini dental implants have this advantage and can prevent tooth and bone loss.
“Dental implants prevent bone atrophy the same way natural roots do: by sending bone stimulating signals to the surrounding bone.”
Choosing Between Traditional Implants and Mini Dental Implants
Every patient is unique and should evaluate the pros and cons of each option, along with discussing the steps and fees involved in the process with a dentist before making a final decision.
A dental professional can place mini dental implants in the jaw, similar to that of a traditional dental implant. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone. With that said, traditional implants typically require a greater amount and thickness of bone than mini implants to ensure a secure hold.
How to Choose the Most Effective Option for You
While a traditional implant is more invasive (requiring a surgical access where mini implant placement is considered a non-surgical placement procedure), there are similarities. Both options require accessing the jaw and placing the implant into the bone, but mini dental implants do not require as much support. The placement of the permanent crowns on the mini implants happens much sooner (in weeks, not multiple months), and the recovery time is generally much quicker with mini dental implants.
Your dentist may recommend one option over the other depending on the amount of bone architecture you currently have. Mini dental implants are possibly an option at times when traditional implants are not. If both are viable long-term solutions, then the patient’s preference will likely be the deciding factor.
“Mini dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. When should I consider mini dental implants?
Q. What are mini dental implants?
Q. What are the benefits of mini dental implants?
Q. How do dental implants prevent tooth and bone loss?
Q. How do I choose between traditional and mini dental implants?
People Also Ask
Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Q. What happens during the dental implant procedure?
Q. What is the most durable option for replacing missing teeth?
Frequently Asked Questions About Implants and Mini Implants
Q. Are mini dental implants durable?
A. Mini dental implants are durable in the sense they can last for years without needing significant repair or replacement. However, they are not as durable as traditional implants. It is not uncommon for mini dental implants to last five to ten years without any issues.
Q. Is the mini dental implant recovery process different?
A. The recovery process is typically shorter with mini dental implants, which is why many dentists and patients prefer them over traditional, full-sized implants. Whereas implants generally take several months for the jaw to heal fully, mini implants only require a couple of weeks for recovery.
Q. Can mini dental implants support a bridge?
A. Mini dental implants often work well for bridges and dentures rather than crowns for single tooth replacement. While mini dental implants may not have the same strength and durability as traditional implants, they can support replacement solutions for multiple missing teeth, including bridges.
Q. Do mini dental implants feel like real teeth?
A. Yes. Mini dental implants look, feel, and function very similar to natural teeth. There are few diet restrictions, and they are essentially indistinguishable from natural teeth when around others.
Q. How much do mini dental implants cost?
A. The average cost of mini dental implants ranges from $500 to $1,500 per implant, depending on the patient’s case and the severity of their condition. However, many insurance plans cover part or most of the treatment. We encourage patients to contact their insurance provider to understand what their plan covers.
Quality Dental Services Can Transform Your Smile
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
If you are interested in restoring your smile, call us at 773-733-5880 for more information about implants and mini dental implants. We are here to help you make the right decision about replacing missing or severely damaged teeth. Our friendly team is willing and able to answer any questions you have about the process.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2022
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2022
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2022
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