How Long Do Mini Dental Implants Last?

When patients break teeth, lost teeth, or find themselves needing teeth replaced, they frequently head to the dentist’s office with the expectation of needing a long-term solution. When they arrive for their appointment, the dentist will likely recommend dental implants. Dental implants give patients the ability to replace or restore teeth in their mouths.

As dentistry has evolved and become more innovative throughout history, more than one type of implant option is now available for consideration. One of these options is mini dental implants. Still relatively new to the dental scene, mini dental implants are increasing in popularity because of their benefits and simplicity.

However, when considering the decision between mini implants and traditional dental implants, it is essential to do some research and look into all areas of each option before making a decision.

Mini Dental Implants vs. Traditional Implants

Many differences exist between mini dental implants and traditional dental implants in terms of size, shape, patient candidacy, placement, and recovery. These differences will vary based on many lifestyle and biological factors produced by the patient and can affect the process in many different ways. In order to determine the best course of action, the dentist will consider all of these differences in great length before making a decision.

Size

Mini implants are much smaller than traditional posts. A traditional post will range from 3.5mm to 6mm in diameter, while mini implants tend to be between 2mm and 3.5mm wide. Because of their size, mini implants require less bone for support and less impact on the jawbone. These smaller posts may not be as stable as larger posts, though, so mini-implants can pose a higher risk of failure.

Shape

In a traditional implant, there are two pieces: a post and an abutment. Mini implants, however, have a one-piece screw, which consists of a post and a ball-shaped end. Mini implants are often created with a rubber O-ring, which is fitted around the ball.

Eligibility

In order to receive traditional implants, the patient must have a strong jawbone, and it must also be sturdy with space for the implants. If a patient has a weak or receding jawbone, they may be forced to opt for the mini implant instead. Mini implants, in comparison to traditional implants, do not require nearly as much tissue from the jawbone to provide support, making the option more viable for them.

Mini implants, however, are not as strong as the more substantial posts that are provided by traditional implants. This could make them less appropriate or desirable for patients who tend to struggle with grinding their teeth or tooth clenching as the pressure on the teeth can weaken the implants.

Placement

Mini implants can be inserted in one visit most of the time and do not require stitches. Traditional implants generally require more than one procedure in order to promote healing and a good finished product.

Recovery

Traditional implants can sometimes require patients to undergo a preliminary procedure to create a bone graft. This procedure will force the patient to wait six to nine months in order to give the jaw a chance to heal. Then, there may be another three to six-month wait after the traditional implants are placed to give the tissue a chance to heal as well.

Mini implants do not usually require more than one procedure, making the recovery time quicker and easier on the patient. Patients can usually leave the office on the same day that they are placed.