Mini dental implants work in the same way as full-size dental implants, in that the titanium rod replaces the root portion of the missing tooth. The titanium rod acts as an anchor to support the dentures, crown or dental bridge and hold them in place.
Mini dental implants are around half the width of traditional dental implants; this can make them an advantageous alternative to traditional implants where there is limited space for the implant to be fitted into the bone.
Mini dental implants are able to withstand the pressure generated by eating because the titanium alloy they are made from is extremely strong.
The procedure takes place under light local anaesthetic, which is usually applied directly to the gum tissue.
One of the most common uses of mini dental implants is to anchor lower sets of dentures; mini dental implants are a very effective means of holding restorations in place. They can help to secure dentures, which will enable wearers to eat a large range of foods, including those that are hard and chewy, without having to worry about their dentures coming loose or falling out. Loose and ill-fitting dentures is a common problem for denture-wearers; as the shape of mouth gradually changes, the dentures become looser and this causes problems with eating and speaking, as well as causing discomfort. Ill fitting dentures can rub against the gum, causing redness and soreness.
Many people who wear dentures also feel apprehensive eating in public places because they worry about their dentures coming loose when they eat certain foods; with min dental implants, they do not have to worry about this and can enjoy all the foods they love.
Increasingly, mini dental implants are also being used to hold single restorations, such as crowns, and dental bridges in place. Mini implants can be fitted much quicker than larger implants and are ideal for those who have limited space for the implant.