Mini dental implants in Green River, WY can be provided to individuals at Birch Family Dental in a caring and efficient manner. We want to assure you that Dr. Birch is experienced and dedicated to providing his patients with the care they need in the most accommodating way possible. We invite you to call us at 307-875-3658 to schedule an appointment with our dentist and learn more about mini dental implants in Green River, Wyoming.
A mini dental implant is just what it sounds like — a dental implant that is smaller than a standard implant. Mini dental implants are most often used to anchor a denture for a more secure, stable restoration. Many of our patients find implant-retained dentures to feel and look more like their natural teeth.
Our dentist may recommend mini implants if you are interested in a less-invasive alternative to standard dental implants. Mini implants hold many benefits, including:
- The process for placing a mini dental implant is less invasive than placing a standard implant, resulting in a more comfortable treatment and shorter healing period.
- Mini dental implants are more affordable than standard implants.
- In some cases, we are able to place the mini implants and attach the dentures in the same day, resulting in a faster tooth replacement process.
- When used to anchor dentures, mini implants can enhance the comfort of your smile and allow you to chew, eat and speak without worrying about slipping dentures.
- Mini implants, like standard implants, help to prevent bone loss after tooth loss, which helps to maintain your facial shape and volume.
Are Mini Dental Implants Right for You?
While standard dental implants come in three parts: the screw, abutment or attachment, and dental crown, mini dental implants in Green River, WY consists of a single solid screw with a ball on the end that protrudes from the jawbone. Because they are less than 3mm in size and smaller than a traditional implant, mini dental implants are also called narrow-diameter implants or small-diameter implants.
One of the most significant benefits of a mini dental implant is that it doesn’t require as much jawbone density as traditional dental implants. However, you still need some jawbone material to attach and fuse to the implant. While most people have sufficient bone density for mini dental implants, you might need a bone grafting procedure to provide additional support and material for the mini dental implant to be successful. Besides poor bone density, some other factors that might prevent you from being a candidate for a mini dental implant include:
- Smoking
- Those who grind their teeth
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Conditions that hinder healing
- Poor oral hygiene, including gum disease
- Those on anticoagulant medication
While these conditions might put you at a higher risk of complications during your mini dental implant procedure, they don’t necessarily exclude you completely. You should speak with your dentist about any health issues or medication you are taking so they have a complete picture to determine if you are still a good candidate for mini dental implants.
What to Expect During the Mini Dental Implant Procedure in Green River, WY
Before your mini dental implant procedure, you will have an initial consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for this type of implant. At this consultation, your dentist will perform a dental exam and take imaging of your teeth for a clear picture of your oral health. They will also perform a health history and discuss your goals before designing a treatment plan that addresses your specific dental needs.
At your placement appointment, your dentist will begin with a local anesthetic to help numb your mouth to make your procedure as comfortable as possible. Your dentist will then make a small surgical incision in your gums to expose your underlying jawbone. Using a dental drill, your dentist will make a small hole in your jawbone for the mini implant to screw into. Depending on the number of mini dental implants you need, your dentist will repeat this process until all of the implants have been placed. If necessary, each incision will be sutured closed around the implant to promote healing. Your dentures or custom-made artificial teeth will then be secured to each dental implant post.
Most people are able to return to normal activities within a day or two following their mini implant procedure. After your treatment, you might experience some soreness and swelling that can be managed with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. Be sure to practice a quality oral care routine that includes brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings to maintain your dental implant for many years to come. If you experience severe pain that does not subside, bleeding, or your implant doesn’t feel right, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to discuss your concerns and schedule a follow-up appointment for treatment.
To learn more about the benefits of mini implants in Green River, WY and find out if they are right for your smile, we encourage you to contact our team today.
