Losing teeth happens for many reasons and is no small matter. It can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, and embarrassing. That’s why many patients pursue tooth implants. Rochester offers premier periodontal services, including dental implants at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester that can transform your smile.
Whether you’ve lost teeth due to tooth decay, a traumatic injury, or gum disease, dental implants are one of the most effective ways to fix your smile and restore your confidence. But there are two common implant solutions, mini implants and traditional dental implants. Which is best for you?
While each patient’s needs will be unique and specific treatment should be discussed at an appointment with your periodontist, here are the basic considerations for each tooth replacement option.
Mini Implants: Pros and Cons
Pros
Mini implants consist of a titanium post smaller than a few millimeters in diameter with a bulbous end. They work well for patients who have lost a considerable amount of structure in their jawbones.
It can also help long-term denture wearers who have lost jaw support, causing a poor denture fit and discomfort. Installing a few mini implants could improve implant-supported dentures’ comfort level and functionality.
If you want to avoid experiencing a bone grafting procedure but do not qualify for standard implants, the mini implant process is a potential solution. Our best recommendation is to talk to your periodontist about whether or not mini implants are viable for you.
The primary appeal of mini dental implants is the cost. Because of their design and size, they tend to be less expensive.
Cons
The very reason mini implants are more budget-friendly also works against them. Because they are smaller, they’re also less durable, resulting in reduced functionality and longevity.
Due to their small size, where one traditional implant would suffice, several mini implants may be necessary.
Mini implants require o-rings around the bulbous end, which may need to be replaced periodically. This will be more frequent for anyone wearing dentures due to the extra strain placed on the implant’s post.
There have been numerous clinical studies conducted about the use and effectiveness of mini implants. Unfortunately, most have shown that they simply do not provide the same long-term success as traditional dental implants.1
The National Library of Medicine provides a long list of conditions that make a patient ineligible for implants, here are just a few: 2
- Use of prescriptions that reduce or alter natural bone remodeling
- Any vascular conditions
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- A clotting disorder
- Heavy cigarette or other tobacco smoking
- Chemo or radiation therapy patients
- Periodontal inflammation (chronic)
Anyone experiencing one or more of these health concerns should replace their teeth with the traditional procedure.
Traditional Dental Implants: Pros and Cons
Pros
A traditional implant serves as an artificial tooth root and is made of a titanium post that’s installed into the jawbone. Attached to this is an abutment and then the final crown, which is how it resembles a natural tooth.
This method of tooth replacement is a long-term option largely due to better and more effective force distribution on the jaw bone. This puts less strain on the jaw by covering a wider surface area. Patients who get traditional dental implants also experience stronger chewing abilities for the same reason.
For denture wearers, traditional dental implants give more support over a longer period of time to help prevent bone atrophy. They’re more secure and durable as they’re installed directly into the jawbone, making the investment a safe one.
Cons
For traditional implant placement, there has to be sufficient jawbone ridge to support the implant. If it’s not, then an additional surgery will need to be done to augment the bone prior to implant placement. Permanent dental implants are not a “set it and forget it” solution. They still require the same attentive dental hygiene as your natural teeth.
Because it is a complex and permanent solution, standard implants may require a steeper financial investment upfront.
It takes time to heal from this surgery, sometimes as long as three to six months before complete healing has taken place.
The Tooth Implants Rochester Trusts!
The professionals at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester are well-versed in dental implant options. If you’re interested in dental implants and would like to know if you are a good candidate, give us a call to schedule a consultation! 585-685-2005
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