The Truth About Mini-Implants

Mini dental implants often come up in discussions about quick and cost-effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. While they may seem appealing due to their less invasive procedure and lower initial cost, it’s crucial to understand the full picture. 

Unlike All-on-4 implants that undergo a process of osseointegration, binding them securely to the bone, mini implants are simply screwed into the jawbone. This fundamental distinction may result in issues with stability, an increased risk of implant failure, and tricky removals if they break. For this reason, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these aspects in case you’re considering them for dental restoration. Read on to learn more!

What do mini dental implants look like?

These are essentially smaller versions of traditional ones, typically measuring less than 3mm in diameter. Designed as a single-piece screw with a ball-shaped end that protrudes above the jawbone, they look like tiny screws with rounded tops. 

What are the disadvantages of mini dental implants?

While similar to traditional options, mini dental implants come with several drawbacks due to their mechanical nature and small proportions:

Challenges with placement and stability

Their narrower design means they are often inserted into less stable bone, requiring more implants (typically 4-6) to support the same denture compared to the usual two for traditional implants. These implants also need to be placed further back into the jaw, which increases the risk of damaging the nerve that runs through the lower jaw.

Mechanical vs. biological

Another point often overlooked is that these implants rely solely on mechanical forces to adhere to the bone, much like a screw in a wall holds up a picture. In contrast, traditional implants integrate with the bone, creating a stable, long-term base for supporting a crown or denture. Since they do not fuse with the bone, it often affects bone health and reduces long-term reliability.

Hidden costs

Moreover, there’s a risk of these implants breaking beneath the jawbone—a serious issue that can seriously endanger the surrounding tissue and bone. While the initial cost of mini dental implants is lower, their shorter lifespan could mean that they may need to be replaced sooner than their traditional counterparts, increasing costs in the long run.

How long do mini implants last?

They can last a long time, but their lifespan tends to be shorter than that of traditional dental implants. Traditional implants, which are larger and more robustly anchored into the jawbone, typically have a lifespan of 20 years or more, with many lasting a lifetime with proper care.

The lifespan of mini implants can be affected by various factors, including the patient’s oral hygiene habits, the pressure placed on the implant from actions like chewing or teeth grinding, and the person’s overall health. While they typically last between 10 to 15 years, individual circumstances can lead to a shorter lifespan.

Who offers expert All-in-4 dental implants in Poway and surrounding areas?

When looking into dentist implant options in Poway and the area, you need to consider factors that include a surgeon’s experience and education, available equipment, payment options, and overall availability. 

Explore your dental options with one of the top specialists around! Dr. Tsvetov is here to walk you through everything—from the benefits of all-on-4 versus 3-on-6 implants to any questions you might have about different dental choices. Whether you’re curious about snap-in dentures or unsure about 24-hour final teeth, he’ll simplify things, making sure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. Reach out to us today to get started!