When it comes to restorative dentistry, oral implants have paved the way for more patients to receive both the smiles they want and the bite strength they need.
Differing from traditional dentures or bridges, implants are fitted to the jaw and, after a period of fusing, a prosthetic tooth or set of teeth are attached, allowing the patient to bite into food with no concerns about movement. Great stuff!
While this all sounds relatively straightforward, there are strict criteria that have to be adhered to by all dental practitioners to ensure that once an implant is fitted, it will offer a long-term solution to the missing tooth it has replaced. If your dentist discovers that your jawline is too thin, or has been damaged, this may disqualify you from having the traditional endosteal implant fitted. Why? Because this implant type is either too wide or too long to offer the required support for a prosthetic to be placed on top.
And, while traditional dental implants in Melbourne may not sound large (an average of 3.5 mm), there are even smaller alternatives that you may be suited for.
What are micro-implants?
Well, it’s in the name!
Based on traditional endosteal implants, micro dental implants from Melbourne are an average of 3.0 mm in size.
Unlike endosteal implants which are composed of 3 parts; the implant, the abutment and the prosthesis, mini dental implants near Melbourne are made from only 2 parts; the implant and the prosthesis. Like regular implants, they are attached to your jaw but they do not take the same amount of time to fuse as regular implants, offering a faster turn around when it comes to fitting your false tooth or teeth.
Do they offer any advantages over regular implants?
Yes!
As they are smaller and less complicated to attach, they can be fitted in just one day.
The surgery to attach them is generally considered less invasive than regular implants, which allows for faster healing too. You may not even need pain relief once the surgery has been completed.
They are also ideal for patients who have suffered from substantial bone loss. Unlike regular implants which may require bone grafting or augmentation to attach, mini implants don’t require such extensive measures. These implants also stimulate bone growth the way regular ones do too!
Is everyone suited for mini implants?
Unfortunately, no. Some criteria may disqualify certain people from having them.
Mini implants (just like regular ones) are best suited to people who do not have periodontal disease, as this will shorten their longevity.
Mini implants cannot be used for patients who are looking to have molars replaced; they are more suited to restoring teeth at the front.
Also, as your dentist will tell you if you smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol regularly, it is not advisable to have mini implants fitted. As they are not as deeply set in the jaw as other implant types are, a smaller amount of inflammation can cause them to fail.
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.