Mini Dental Implant Procedure

The most advanced technology for replacing broken, damaged, decayed or missing teeth can be found in Mini Dental Implants. This revolutionary procedure is not designed to replace the need for conventional or traditional implants, rather it offers patients a different choice.

Advancements in technology have drastically reduced implant size, thereby reducing cost—making dental implantation more affordable and ideal for many patients who were not candidates for traditional implants. Dental implants are a great option for patients in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth and wish to restore their naturally, beautiful smile.

The Mini Dental Implant Procedure

This innovative treatment is something that can be completed for most patients in just a single dental visit.  The procedure will start with the administration of a local anesthetic. Once sufficiently numbed, small incisions will be made in the gum line and a specialized drill will create small holes in the jawbone for implant placement.

A specialized wrench is used to tighten the implant into the jawbone until only the top portion (the abutment) is visible above the gum line. This visible portion of the implant is what connects the implant to the dental prosthetic.

A single or multiple implants may be needed depending on whether a patient is replacing a single tooth, a group of teeth or an entire arch of teeth. Once a patients’ implant(s) is placed, the next step will be to attach the dental prosthetic(s).

In order to properly attach the dental prosthetic (crown, bridge, partial or full dentures) to the implant, your dentist must place a retaining fixture onto each dental prosthetic. The retaining fixture is socket-like in nature and fits snugly over the ball-shaped implant abutment. The retaining fixture snaps onto the implant abutment, effectively stabilizing the dental prosthetic—giving patients the look and function of natural teeth.

When it comes to replacing broken, damaged and missing teeth, mini dental implants are quickly growing to be one of the most sought after tooth replacement procedures. Find out today if this revolutionary tooth replacement treatment is right for you.

Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions Part 3

More common Dental Implant questions asked and answered:

Can implants improve my appearance?

While the main reason for dental implantation is to improve oral health through the ability to chew and speak more easily, teeth do play an important role in an individual’s overall appearance, therefore dental implants do ultimately play a role in the enhancement of one’s appearance.

How does the implant procedure work?

The implant procedure is surgical in nature and involves the placement of an implant or implants into the jawbone using precise techniques. The dentist will start by administering an anesthetic, after which incisions are made in the gum line allowing access to the bone of the jaw. A specialized drill is used to drill into the jawbone, creating a space for the implant. The implant is then placed using a specialized wrench which effectively ‘screws’ the implant into place. When the implant is properly placed, only the head or abutment will be visible above the gum line.

If patients are undergoing treatment for the placement of mini dental implants, the dental prosthetic will be immediately attached to the abutment, providing the patient with a natural looking tooth replacement. If patients are undergoing traditional dental implantation, the implant will be left for 3-6 months (although a temporary tooth will be attached to allow patients to chew and speak with ease), during which the bone of the jaw will fuse with the titanium alloy of the implant, providing the stability needed for the attachment of the dental prosthetic.

What should be expected during surgery?

A local anesthetic is most often used during this treatment, which eliminates all pain. If patients require it, sedation may also be used. After surgery, patients may experience some discomfort as well as possible swelling and bruising, however your dentist will prescribe you medication that will help with these treatment symptoms. Each patient will heal at their own rate, so your experience might not be the same as other patients.

How long does the procedure take?

Treatment time will depend largely on what type of procedure you are undergoing as well as how many implants are being placed. On average, it can take one to two hours to place each implant. Your dentist will discuss your treatment plan with you prior to implantation.

Do you still have unanswered dental implant questions? Check back soon for our fourth and final installment of dental implant frequently asked questions.

Denture Implants

Removable dentures are notorious for causing problems due to the fact that they rarely stay firmly and comfortably in place, but denture implants offer patients a more stable alternative.  If you are one of the many men and women that like the look and feel of your dentures, but are frustrated with the many problems commonly associated with dentures, consider dental implants for a stable, long-lasting solution.

Dentures are a common solution utilized by men and women who are missing large groups of teeth or all of their teeth. Bridges and crowns are great alternatives for those missing a single tooth or a small group of teeth, but dentures are the best option for replacing a full arch of teeth. Removable dentures give patients a naturally looking smile, but often they fail to provide stable support for common daily practices such as speaking and eating.

Denture Implants are dental implants that hold removable dentures securely in place, providing long-lasting stable support for patients. There are several types of implants available to patients; the type used will depend on the oral health of the patient as well as the quality and quantity of bone present in the jaw. Other factors that can influence the implant are age, the rate of bone re-absorption (bone loss that can occur after losing a tooth or teeth) and the patient’s use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco products.

Once a patient is considered a candidate for dental implants, the procedure will begin. Your dentist will administer an anesthetic, after which incisions will be made in the gum line for access to the jawbone. Specialized tools will then be used to create space in the bone for insertion of the implant. The implant will then be securely placed in the jawbone where it will act as stable support for your dentures.

No matter the size, generally at least two to four implants are placed in each of the upper and lower regions of the mouth. Once properly placed, only the ball-shaped head or abutment portion of the implant will be visible above the gum line.  Metal housings (one for each implant) will then be attached to the dentures. These housings feature locking mechanisms that effectively snap onto the implant abutment, holding the dentures firmly in place.

Denture implants are a fantastic way for patients to achieve a naturally beautiful smile without the hassles associated with removable dentures.  

Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions Part 2

More of the most commonly asked Dental Implant questions asked and answered:

Is there an age limit to implants?

For the most part there are no age limitations when it comes to dental implants, however they are not ideal for young patients. Implants are placed in the jawbone, and younger patients that have not finished growing, can experience additional bone growth in this area, which can compromise an implant. Age itself is not a deterrent; rather bone growth as well as the state of your health will determine whether or not you are a proper candidate for the procedure.

What is the success rate for implants and are there any guarantees?

Success with implants can never be guaranteed, but the treatment has been extensively tested and patients, in general, experience a 90-95% success rate over a 5 to 10 year period. That being said, some implants have been known to last more than 30 years. Minor maintenance may be needed from time to time, but if the proper aftercare is taken, patients can experience long-term success.

Are there any known complications?

When it comes to surgical procedures, there are always potential risks and complications, and dental implants are no exception. The most common complications with implants are the failure of the implant to successfully integrate with the jawbone, and damage caused to surrounding teeth. Instances of these complications are rare, and with careful pre-treatment planning, can be kept to a minimum.

Immediate failure of implants is most often due to an unfavorable bone pattern or the presence of infection. When this occurs, the site can often be left to heal for a few months, after which the implant can be successfully reinserted. Implants have also been known to fail after several years of initial success. This is most commonly due to too much stress being placed on the implant, or an insufficient number of implants initially placed (sometimes done to save on cost). Through appropriate assessment and treatment however, this risk can be minimized.

Another complication often associated with dental implants is a condition known as perimplantitis. Similar to periodontitis (gum disease), this condition is for the most part painless and is associated with inflammation of the gums and progressive loss of bone at the implant site. Daily brushing can prevent this, as well as frequent implant cleaning and regular visits to your dentist.

Do you have more questions about dental implants? Check back soon for our third installment of frequently asked dental implant questions.

Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is an innovative procedure that was developed for the replacement of missing or damaged teeth. While there are many dental treatments available for tooth replacement today, few offer stable, long lasting results that look and function much like natural teeth. Dental implant surgery can offer a welcome alternative to those patients currently suffering with missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures or unstable bridgework.

Dental implant surgery is different for each patient; your treatment plan will depend on the type of implant(s) you are receiving as well as the condition of your jawbone. Most implant surgeries occur in stages and involve several procedures.

The Procedure

Dental implant surgery will begin with a dental consultation. Your dentist will take a look at the area being treated, assess the health of your remaining teeth and take a look at the condition of your jawbone. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and require a certain amount of surrounding bone for proper placement. Those patients who do not have enough surrounding bone may require bone grafting or bone augmentation prior to implant placement.

Once the jawbone is properly prepped (this can require one or more treatments over a certain period of time), your dentist will then place the implant. This treatment begins with an incision in the gum line, followed by use of a specialized drill to create a space in the bone for implantation. The implant is then placed; a specialized wrench is used to secure the implant in the bone.

Over a period of time, the bone will heal around the implant, creating a secure base or root for the dental prosthetic. Once secure, patients will return to the dental office where the dental prosthetic (a crown, bridge, partial or full set of dentures) will then be placed, giving patients the look and feel of a naturally beautiful smile.

Risks

Like any surgery, dental implant surgery does come with some risk, however problems are rare, minor and easily treatable. Discuss these and other concerns with your dentist prior to treatment. Risks include:

- Infection at the site of the implant
- Damage or injury to surrounding teeth or blood vessels
- Sinus problems
- Nerve damage, which can cause numbness, tingling or pain in your natural teeth, gums, lips or chin

If you are looking to replace broken, damaged or missing teeth, dental implant surgery may be the solution for you. Find out more about this innovative procedure today.

Root Canal Treatment vs. Dental Implants - Which Is The Best Option

Dental implants are a fantastic way to replace broken, damaged or missing teeth, but like with most medical and dental procedures, there are other options. One such option when it comes to tooth replacement is a root canal. While root canals are successful in replacing a single missing teeth, there are stipulations to this treatment, and in some cases, an implant can be a better option. Knowing the difference between these two options will help you to determine which is best for you.

Root canals are a popular method for restoring (or saving) teeth that are badly damaged, decaying or have become infected. The root canal process involves removing dental pulp and properly cleaning sealing the tooth root. This is done through a process called excavation.

Once the roots are properly cleaned and sealed, the remaining tooth will then be prepared for the dental prosthetic. This is done by filling the interior of the tooth with a sealer paste and a rubber compound called gutta percha, both of which are placed into the tooth's root canal. The final step involves placement of the dental prosthetic (most often a crown). A well-done root canal can provide long lasting results.

A dental implant is most often used when a tooth cannot be saved. Teeth that are too damaged or decayed, or are missing all together, require additional support for the dental prosthetic, and this can be found in a dental implant.

The implant procedure involves placement of the dental implant into the jawbone through a surgical procedure. During treatment your dentist will use a specialized drill to create a small hole in your jawbone, in which the dental implant is placed. The dental implant acts as the tooth root, providing support for the dental prosthetic.

Once placed, the dental prosthetic, whether crown, bridge, full or partial dentures, will then be securely attached, providing stable, long lasting results that give patients the look and feel of natural teeth.

Knowing which procedure is right for you will ultimately depend on the state of your tooth or teeth. After a careful review, your dentist will be able to recommend either a root canal or dental implants to replace your teeth.

Dental Implant Frequently Asked Questions – Part 1

Dental implants are a safe and effective long lasting solution for men and women who are looking to replace broken, damaged, decayed or missing teeth. While this treatment can provide patients with a naturally beautiful smile, the procedure can be quite involved, and it is recommended that patients are well informed before undergoing treatment.

Here, some of the most commonly asked dental implant questions are asked and answered.

What are implants?

Dental implants are titanium alloy posts that are designed to act as a tooth’s root. These ‘roots’ are used to support crowns, fixed bridges or dentures. Titanium is a strong, lightweight material that effectively bonds with the bone of the jaw, making it both safe and long lasting.

What are the advantages over conventional tooth replacements?

Bridges, crowns and dentures can provide patients with adequate tooth replacement, but implants provide comfortable, stable, long-lasting support. Providing stable support for dental prosthetics allows patients to speak and chew with ease. Because implants do not rely on support from surrounding teeth, patients also see an increase in overall oral health.

Is everyone a candidate for dental implants?

Simply having missing teeth does not automatically qualify a patient for dental implants. There are specific criteria that need to be looked at before a patient can be considered for implantation:

General oral health. The condition of the remainder of a patients teeth and gums needs to be stable in order for dental implants to be successful. Areas of the mouth that may have gum disease, broken teeth or dental decay will need to be treated before an implant can be placed.

Oral health maintenance. Will a patient be able to maintain their oral health?  An implant’s success rate will depend on the patient’s ability to keep their teeth and gums clean. Your dentist will provide you with a suggested cleaning schedule and will advise you on how to care for your implants once they are placed.

Sufficient quantity and quality of bone. Implant success relies most on the quality and quantity of bone present in the jaw. Without the right amount of bone, placing implants can be difficult. If the sufficient amount of bone is not present, there is a range of techniques that can be used to increase bone quantity for successful implantation.

Do you have additional questions about dental implants?  Check back soon for our next installment of dental implant frequently asked questions.

Bone Augmentation for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a revolutionary procedure used to replace missing teeth, but unfortunately, not all men and women are candidates for the treatment. Dental implants, whether traditional or mini, require a certain amount of bone in the jaw for successful implantation—both the quality and quantity of bone material will determine overall success. If patients are not initially candidates because they do not have enough bone in their jaw, there are alternatives. One of which is bone augmentation.

Bone augmentation for dental implants allows patients that are not candidates to undergo implant treatments. Due to advancements in medical and dental technology, today there are several augmentation treatments available to increase bone in the jaw.  These include endogenous bone grafting, which is bone taken directly from the patient (from a different area of the body), cultivated bone tissue, and synthetic bone grafting.

There are pros and cons to each procedure and patients success rates will vary based on the individual. Endogenous bone grafting is often the most successful, however the transplanted bone should not exceed a certain size. This is because when the bone is transplanted it contains different cells. As soon as it is removed from its original location, it is cut off from its nutrient supply. Endogenous bone will successfully transplant when the block is small, as nutrients will reach the transplanted bone faster and allow for higher success rate.

Cultivated bone tissue and synthetic bone augmentation can be successful in patients, but both have a higher rate of rejection. Because of this, the overall state of a patient’s oral health, including remaining teeth, as well as the dental objective will ultimately determine which type of bone augmentation procedure to use for dental implants.

Discussing all of your options will allow you to determine the best course of treatment as there are often procedures and treatments that accompany bone grafting, in order to increase success rate. Bone augmentation for dental implants is not something that will work for everyone, but there are other treatments available that can help you to replace missing teeth. Partial and full dental prosthetics are viable alternatives and help patients to achieve a natural smile.

If you are not currently a candidate for dental implants, find out if bone augmentation procedures can help you to enhance your smile.

How Long do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are well known for providing long lasting results for those patients looking to replace missing teeth, but how long is ‘long-lasting’? When first developed, implants were not known to last for an extended period of time. Over the years, extensive research and development has led to advancement in implant technology, which has vastly increased their long-term success. With over one million patients treated with dental implants, research has shown that over 95% of all implants place are successful—success is defined by proper function lasting over five years.

Dental implants are not a permanent solution, but if taken care of properly, can last for years (many more than five years). So how long do dental implants last?  That depends on a variety of factors.

The first and most important factor is long-term care. After a dental implant is placed, it is important to brush and floss regularly. Keeping implants clean will prevent inflammation. Regular visits to the dentist will also help. Professional cleaning on a regular basis can significantly reduce implant failure.

The second factor that can influence implant success is the skill of the dentist that placed the implant. Dental implantation requires additional education that not all dentists receive in dental school. When searching for a dental implant dentist, it is important to choose one that is both certified and reputable. Dental implantology requires skills that not all dentists possess.

The third factor related to implant success is the quality of the implant or fixture being placed. Dental implantation is a field of dentistry that has exploded in popularity over the past few years. There are many companies out there producing dental implants, but not all are certified. Non-certified implants allow dentists to cut costs, which can provide a more affordable implant for patients—but can also lead to problems down the line. When undergoing the implant procedure, be sure your dentist is using certified implants and fixtures.

How long do dental implants last today? That depends on a couple of factors. One, of course, is how well you take care of them. You need to brush and floss - keep them clean, to prevent inflammation around the implants.

How long your dental implants last will ultimately depends on you as well as the care and expertise of your dentist. Poor quality treatment can lead to implant failure so be sure to visit a certified dentist for all your implant needs.