Are you ready to join over 500,000 people this year who are choosing to replace their missing teeth with dental implants? You are making an excellent investment for your oral health and your quality of life. While you may think all dental implants are the same, they are not. You have a couple of different options. You can choose from traditional or mini dental implants in Marietta, but which is best? Here is what you need to know to make the best choice for your new smile.
Standard vs. Mini Dental Implants
Standard dental implants are the most widely used option to replace missing teeth. They are larger than mini implants, ranging from 3.5mm to 6mm in diameter. They provide a more stable and long-lasting solution. Although they are effective, they require more jawbone tissue to support them. Often, this can mean undergoing a bone grafting procedure before you can have them placed.
As an alternative, mini implants can be used, which are about 2mm to 3.5 in diameter. They are smaller than standard ones and require less bone to support them. This often makes them suitable for those who have compromised density in their jaw but do not want to undergo bone grafting; however, they are not as stable as traditional posts and may have a slightly higher failure rate.
Traditional posts consist of two pieces: a post and an abutment. A mini implant is a single component with a ball-shaped end already connected to the post. This also creates a difference with the restorations that are placed on them. A mini implant requires a restoration fabricated with an O ring to fit around the ball.
Since mini implants are only one piece, they can often be placed in a single visit and without the need for sutures. Traditional implants often require two separate surgeries, which is more extensive.
Which is Right for Me?
You can be a candidate for mini or traditional dental implants in Marietta. Standard posts are recommended for those who have a strong, sturdy jawbone to have sufficient space to support the posts. If you have lost bone density and do not want to undergo a grafting procedure, mini implants may be the better option. Unfortunately, if you suffer from bruxism or have a habit of clenching your teeth, you may not be a candidate for them because they are not able to withstand the same force as traditional ones.
Complete Your Smile Today!
Your dentist performs an initial consultation and uses CT scans to assess your jawbone. Based on their findings, they determine which one best meets your needs for a complete smile.