Mini Dental Implants in East Longmeadow, MA
An estimated 3 million people in the United States have at least one dental implant. Although standard dental implants can offer many benefits, more people are turning to mini dental implants. Learn why Gregory Zirakian, DMD, of East Longmeadow Family Dental Center recommends mini dental implants.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Dental implants are structures that function like tooth roots. They are titanium posts that fit securely into your jaw or gums and attach to a false tooth.
Standard dental implants consist of a titanium post and an abutment that connects the post to the false tooth. This structure requires a lot of space and substantial jawbone density. Mini dental implants, on the other hand, do not need an abutment, which makes them a better option for those who do not have much bone density left in the area.
Generally, mini dental implants are about 3 millimeters in diameter and screw directly into your jawbone.
The best candidates for mini dental implants are people who:
- Are in good overall health
- Are not eligible for or do not want standard implants
- Have some jawbone density
If you have lost a tooth to decay or injury, mini dental implants can help you regain the full use of your bite.
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
Mini dental implants are small enough that even if you have had significant jawbone loss, they can still be a viable option. Jawbone loss occurs when your jawbone no longer receives the stimulation it needs from tooth roots after you lose a tooth.
If you have a limited amount of bone density in the area, getting a standard dental implant can require a bone grafting procedure. This procedure is more expensive and means waiting weeks before you can receive the implant.
Because mini dental implants are smaller, they do not require as much bone density, so you do not have to worry about bone grafting procedures.
Because the procedure for placing mini dental implants is faster and less complex than standard implants, you can expect your treatment to be more affordable.
Placing mini dental implants is also less invasive than placing standard dental implants. You can expect a faster recovery time because there are no incisions to care for.
Mini dental implants are smaller than standard implants, so they can be a good choice for areas in your jaw where space is limited. And unlike traditional dentures, mini dental implants allow you to chew hard foods without worrying about the implants shifting.
The Mini Dental Implants Procedure
If you have lost a tooth or several teeth, getting dental implants begins with scheduling a free consultation with Dr. Zirakian at East Longmeadow Family Dental Center.
During this appointment, Dr. Zirakian will take digital X-rays of the affected area to see if a mini dental implant is the right option. If it is, the X-rays will allow him to see where to best place the implants.
If you are a good candidate for mini dental implants, you will need to consult with your primary care physician who may recommend you avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements for a short time before your appointment, including:
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
You will also want to avoid drinking alcohol a few days before the procedure. For some people, a course of antibiotics might also be necessary.
Dr. Zirakian will tell you more about how to prepare for your appointment and answer any questions you may have about the anesthesia you will receive, the sedation options you can choose, and other concerns.
On the day of your appointment, Dr. Zirakian will numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, he will drill a small pinhole incision into your jaw and insert the mini dental implant. He will make sure the implant is secure and attach the replacement tooth to the post.
You are free to go home right after the procedure. If you receive sedation, you will need to have someone drive you.
Mini Dental Implant Recovery and Maintenance
Recovering from a mini dental implant procedure does not take long. Most people can return to their usual activities within one or two days of the procedure, though it is a good idea to avoid strenuous exercise during the first 24 hours. You can use over-the-counter painkillers and cold compresses as needed.
As you recover, avoid hard or sticky foods. These can dislodge the implants and prolong the healing process. Instead, stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes and pasta for a few days.
Mini dental implants require maintenance similar to that of your natural teeth. Continue to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove food particles that can cause bacteria to grow. You can also use mouthwash.
If you grind your teeth, you will need to wear a mouth guard to avoid damaging the mini dental implants. If you habitually bite your fingernails, chew on ice, or bite objects like pens, it’s best to stop. These habits can all damage dental implants.
It is also important to keep regular appointments with Dr. Zirakian so that he can look for any issues with the implant or with your overall oral health.
Schedule A Free Consultation for Mini Dental Implants Today
Mini dental implants can help you get the full power of your bite back. These dental devices require less space and bone density than standard dental implants. They can support a single false tooth, a dental bridge, or a full set of dentures.
When you turn to East Longmeadow Family Dental Center in East Longmeadow, MA, you are in the care of Dr. Gregory Zirakian. He has close to 40 years of experience providing quality dental services, from placing dental implants to root canals and more.
Our state-of-the-art facilities offer the latest technological tools, including advanced digital X-rays, to streamline diagnostics and treatments. Learn more about our services and schedule a free consultation by calling East Longmeadow Family Dental Center.
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