By now most everyone is aware of dental implants and their place in dentistry. Titanium implants are used throughout the skeletal system to replace hips, knees, etc. In dentistry large body titanium implants are now the number one alternative for replacing extracted teeth. However, large body implant dentistry is a significant financial investment and many people choose other alternatives like fixed bridges, removable bridges, or just leaving the gaping holes unrestored (what a shame) for financial reasons.
Another class of implants is the small diameter (about a tenth of an inch) or mini implant. How and why are mini implants used in dentistry? For years these implants have been used in narrow spaces too small for standard sized implants, other anatomic restrictions, to retain removable bridges and dentures, or for cost savings. I will focus on denture appliance retention and cost savings.
Mini implants are excellent for keeping dentures and partial dentures from flopping around in the mouth. They eliminate the need for adhesives while allowing the denture to literally snap onto the implant attachment. The denture appliance stays put until it is removed and cleaned. Sometimes mini implants are used as temporary stabilizing anchors during prolonged dental treatments or orthodontic correction. They can be removed with quick healing of the implant site.
Mini implants are about half the cost of the larger diameter implants and can be placed by most trained dentists in one visit. Often the denture can be immediately attached to the implants. How are they placed and what should I expect afterword’s?
Implants are placed after carefully planning the proposed implant sites. Although one is wide awake the area is locally anesthetized (like for fillings) and pilot holes placed. The receptor area usually has no feeling after the gums are numbed. The implants are directly threaded into place, placement angles confirmed, and the attachments placed on the implants. Since I do not peel away the gum tissue there is little soft tissue invasion sutures are not needed. The gums around the implants will be tender for a day or two until healing begins. Tylenol or Advil may be taken.
If the implants are secure enough your dentist will be able to convert your “removable denture” into a “retained denture” at the same time. This is a wonderful choice for people unable to afford fixed implant/bridgework, elderly or medically compromised individuals, and younger active denture wearers who like to scuba dive or surf.
No comments:
Post a Comment