Patients with missing teeth have more options than ever when it comes to choosing a replacement treatment. Traditional dental implants have become one of the most popular treatments. In recent years, however, mini dental implants in Shepherdsville KY have been introduced to the world of dentistry. While these two treatments share some common traits, they are used in different scenarios. Understanding the differences between the two will help a patient make an educated decision with it comes to selecting a tooth replacement procedure.
Indications
While both traditional implants and mini implants are used to replace teeth, they are often used in completely different instances. When an individual has a single tooth loss or multiple extractions that are recent, the dentist will most likely suggest traditional implants. However, if the patient has been wearing dentures for years or has a significant bone recession, mini dental implants Shepherdsville KY will be recommended. This is because less bone is required for mini implants.
Procedure
Both traditional and mini implants require oral surgery to place. They are both considered outpatient treatments. However, the procedure for inserting traditional implants is much more invasive. The posts are larger and must be surgically inserted deeper into the jaw bone. Mini dental implants are almost half the size of traditional ones. They can be placed using only light sedation. The procedure requires less time to complete.
Timeline
The start to finish timeline for traditional implants compared to mini implants is vastly different. It can take several months for a single traditional implant to be completed. This is mainly because of the long healing period. Depending on the patient, the initial surgery may require 3-4 months for the implant to fuse to the bone. It is only after healing is complete that a crown can be screwed into place. On the other hand, a mini dental implant procedure can be finished in a single day. The patient will have the implants inserted, and a denture snapped onto the posts all in the same appointment.
Most patients will be approved for either traditional implants or mini implants by their dentist. For those who are not viable candidates, standard dentures are still an option. Browse us to see some before and after photos of patients who have either traditional or mini implants.
