Mini Dental Implants

Lyndhurst Comfort and Stability

Mini Implants are simply, as the name suggests, smaller than average implants. The mini implant ranges in size from ¼ to ½ the size of “normal” implants.

The Mini Implant can be utilized to provide light retentive support to a complete denture prosthesis. Using between two and four mini implants and relining the denture with a soft liner one can quickly add stability to a loose denture. The denture still rests on the gum tissue but its movement is limited by the implants. The retention is not as strong as a standard implant but it is better than a free floating denture.

Because of the smaller size the Mini Implant has several advantages but their small size also creates several limitations and negatives.

Advantages

1. The smaller width of the mini implant allows its use in thinner areas of bone without the need for additional bone grafting.
2. The surgical placement of the mini implant is generally done with a very limited bone exposure which limits soft tissue trauma and thus reduces post treatment discomfort.
3. The cost of a mini implant is significantly less than the cost of a standard sized implant
4. The cost of the mini implant prosthesis is much less than the cost of standard implant prosthesis.
5. If the current denture is in excellent condition it may be able to be utilized as the final implant prosthesis further controlling the cost. This is rare as it must be in virtually perfect condition.

Disadvantages

1. The mini implant because of its small size has less attachment to the bone and thus has a five year success rate of approximately 80% versus 98% for the standard implant.
2. The amount of retention to the denture prosthesis of a mini implant is less than half of a standard implant prosthesis.
3. Because of the lower success rate the mini implant is not expected to function long term where a standard implant has a 96% -98% thirty year success rate.

Mini implants are an excellent transitional solution to a loose denture. They will increase function and stability. When the time is proper the transition to standard implants can be made.

If you desire additional information as to how mini implants might benefit you call us at 440-461-8200 or contact us at smiles@wholelifedentistry.com.