Are you considering filling in a gap in your smile with dental implants but aren't sure whether traditional implants or mini implants are the better option? Our Mississauga, ON, dentists share some information on both types of dental implants to help you decide.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants function as a root replacement system. They're made of titanium, a metal that easily bonds to bones. Once the titanium posts are placed in openings made in your jawbone, the bonding process begins. Bonding, the most important step in the process, generally takes 3 to 6 months. Once your implant is securely attached to your bone, a lifelike crown will be attached to the top of it.
Dental implants offer an excellent long-term tooth replacement option. Because your new crown is attached to the implant, it won't slip when you chew. Implants are an ideal solution no matter how many teeth you've lost. In fact, implant-supported dentures offer an important benefit for denture wearers. When dentures are attached to implants, you won't experience the decrease in biting power common with removable dentures.
How are mini implants different than traditional implants?
The titanium posts used in mini implants are about half the diameter of those used for traditional implants. Unlike traditional implants, there's no required waiting period before you can receive your dental restoration. Mini-implants offer a shorter recovery period and are less expensive than traditional implants.
Traditional implants won't work if your jawbone is too shallow. Adding bone grafts can improve depth, but the procedure adds additional time to the implant process. Because mini implants are smaller, they can be used for shallow jawbones and don't require grafting first.
Mini implants can also improve denture stability. Implant-supported dentures are designed to snap onto the heads of the implants, providing a secure foundation for your new teeth. As few as four mini implants can support an entire upper or lower denture.
