The absence of your teeth has forced you to accept a host of inconveniences: less confidence, the inability to chew food and difficulty with speaking clearly. With the innovations in dentistry, there are now more options than just dentures, and two alternatives are traditional dental implants in Reno and mini dental implants. As you read on, a dentist compares the two procedures to determine which is better for replacing your missing teeth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted beneath the gumline and acts as a replacement for missing teeth roots. It affixes to the jawbone and fuses with the same over time through a process called osseointegration. This is made possible because titanium is a biocompatible material, which means your mouth is less likely to reject it.
After you heal from the initial placement of the post, an abutment is added that allows a final restoration (crown, bridge or denture) to be attached.
The Mini Implant Difference
Like the traditional dental implant, the mini implant also inserts into the jawbone. The difference between the mini and the traditional implant is the former is half a diameter smaller than a traditional implant.
The mini implant’s design is geared toward allowing people without sufficient bone mass to still undergo the implant process. This creates other challenges, though.
Traditional vs. Mini Dental Implants
The following is a comparison between traditional and mini implants over three categories:
- Comfort – Patients typically experience greater comfort with traditional implants. Because the latter are bigger, they distribute the weight applied to the jawbone better.
- Efficiency – It requires two mini implants to provide the same support as a single traditional implant. Thus, the latter is the more efficient procedure.
- Healing Time – When it comes to healing, the time required with mini implants is usually longer than the traditional method. This is also attributed to the amount of force that is applied to the jawbone with the mini implant procedure.
The Final Decision Comes Down to This
The only way to make a final determination about which method is best for you is to visit an implant dentist in Reno to undergo a full examination. The expert will capture a full set of X-Ray photos to evaluate your current condition and develop the most successful treatment plan.
With your new implants and restorations, you’ll soon have a boost to your self-esteem, a beautiful smile and the ability to speak with confidence. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
About the Author
Dr. Josh Branco earned his dental degree from Boston University, and he has since gone on to receive additional training in oral surgery, IV sedation and implantology. He is also a Fellow of the International Congress of Implantologists. To stay abreast of the latest changes in dentistry, Dr. Branco also maintains membership with such organizations as the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology. He helps patients regain normal lives by replacing their missing teeth with dental implants at Sage Dental Care, and he can be reached for more information through his website.