Mini Implant (left) next to a traditional Dental Implant (right)
Just as the name implies, Mini Dental Implants are just like regular Dental Implants, but they are narrower in diameter.
Traditional Dental Implants are usually about 4-5mm in diameter. Mini Implants are less than 3mm in diameter, about the width of a wooden toothpick. Like traditional Dental Implants, Mini Implants come in a variety of lengths to accommodate the size and shape of the jaw.
Traditional Implants are made up of three separate parts:
- The titanium post that is placed into the jaw
- The abutment, which fits onto the post to support the new tooth
- The new tooth, which fits onto the abutment
Existing dentures can often be made to fit onto Mini Dental Implants for stability
Mini Dental Implants are a single titanium unit, with a ball or adapter on top. An o-ring and socket connects the dentures to the implant. Four Mini Dental Implants are usually used to support full set of dentures in the lower arch. Six Mini Dental Implants may be needed to support a full set of dentures in the upper arch.
Why are Mini Dental Implants Used?
Mini Dental Implants can be used to to replace teeth in narrow areas of the mouth where traditional Dental Implants would be too large to fit comfortably.
They are most often used to stabilize dentures, especially in the lower jaw. Existing dentures can often be fitted for placement onto Mini Dental Implants, saving time and money.
Mini Dental Implants require less bone in the jaw for successful placement, and may avoid the need for bone grafts in patients who have bone loss.
For patients who are anxious about dental procedures, the Mini Dental Implant process is quicker, less invasive and the recovery time faster than the traditional Dental Implant procedure.
The length of the Mini Dental Implant is what determines its strength.
What is the Cost of Mini Dental Implants?
Mini Dental Implants cost significantly less than traditional Dental Implants because of their size and relative ease of placement. The cost varies, depending on:
- Where you have the implants placed (the cost will be higher in large cities than in rural areas)
- The dental professional performing the implant placement
- The number of implants being placed
- Having several implants placed at one time will be less costly than having them done individually.
- The diagnostic tests that are needed before placement
According to the Dental Implant Cost Guide, a single Mini Dental Implant costs between $500 and $1500, or an average of $1000. A single Traditional Dental Implant costs about $2450.
Some insurance companies may pay for a portion of the cost of Mini Dental Implants and may even negotiate payment in conjunction with the cost of a set of dentures.
How to Get the Best Mini Dental Implants
The sizing and placement of Mini Dental Implants is crucial for their success. Going to a Prosthodontist, like Dr. Stone, who specializes in placing Dental Implants, and who has an on-site laboratory, is an important factor in obtaining a favorable outcome. Follow-up visits, education about the care of Mini Dental Implants and having a treatment team to answer questions and concerns about the process, are an important part of maintaining good oral health.
Please contact us if you have questions about Mini Dental Implants and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stone.
I am happy to recommend Dr. Stone. He is the best dentist of many I have endured. He is honest, wise, charming, his advice is always thoughtful and right. My implants are wonderful!”
-Marion G. Wells, August 10, 2014
Artistry and Expertise
Proper placement and esthetics are vital to the success of Dental Implants. Dr. Stone is a Prosthodontist, which means he has advanced training in tooth restoration. He teaches Dental Implant Techniques to dentists at two colleges in south Florida. We have an Onsite Laboratory, which assures excellent quality and cost effective care. Start with a Free Consultation, and we’ll help you with every step along the way to your perfect smile.
