MINI DENTAL IMPLANTS

Article Author

Author: Ivana Senković , DMD

30.11.2023

Mini dental implants are one-piece implants with a diameter of less than 3 mm.

Although they are sometimes used as a temporary solution, mini implants are mostly a permanent solution for replacing one or more teeth. Mini implants can also serve as anchorages in orthodontic therapy.

When used in orthodontic therapy, they serve as a means of precise control of tooth movement during some orthodontic treatments. By using mini implants to correct bite problems, more complex cases are solved that would otherwise require (orthognathic) jaw surgery.

When used to replace teeth, they are best used in edentulous jaws in patients who, due to the amount and quality of the bone, are not candidates for traditional implants. In these cases, mini implants (4 in the lower and 6 in the upper jaw) ensure good stability for mobile prosthetic work.

Unlike traditional implants, which require more extensive surgery, placement of mini dental implants is less invasive and often more comfortable for patients. Although they can last a lifetime, mini implants are generally not as permanent as conventional implants. They have a lower tolerance to bite forces, which means they are more likely to break. Other factors such as smoking and oral hygiene will also determine how long a mini implant will last.

After placement, mini implants require the same care as natural teeth: brushing two to three times a day, flossing once a day, and regular visits to the dentist.