English 
Spanish Dr. John Hopkins of the Centre for Smile Designs is an experienced dental implant specialist with over 25 years in dentistry and a proven track record of placing dental implants. For many patients, mini dental implants are ideal for replacing missing teeth. These narrow-diameter implants are less invasive, more affordable, and quicker to place than traditional implants, offering a convenient and effective solution. If you’re exploring your dental implant options, it’s natural to have questions. Why not turn to Dr. Hopkins, a trusted professional, for the answers you need?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the jawbone to support restorations like crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Conventional implants have a diameter of about 5 millimeters and require a more complex placement procedure. The process starts with an incision in the gums to reveal the jawbone. The dentist then uses progressively larger drills to create a hole for the implant, which is screwed into place. Afterward, the gums are stitched closed, and a healing period follows. Once healed, the dentist reopens the gums to attach an abutment (a connector) and the final restoration. This multi-step process can take several months to complete. Additionally, conventional implants consist of multiple parts, which can create spaces that collect bacteria and increase the risk of infection and implant failure.
In contrast, mini dental implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter and require a simpler, less invasive procedure. Dr. Hopkins places mini implants without making incisions. Instead, he drills a small pilot hole and threads the implant directly into the bone. These narrow-diameter implants are self-tapping, so no series of drills is necessary.
Mini implants allow for immediate loading, meaning they are stable enough to support a restoration as soon as they are secured. Their one-piece design eliminates the risk of infection between parts and contributes to faster, more efficient treatment with reduced costs. This streamlined process is quicker, simpler, and less invasive than that of conventional implants.
A Dental Implant Specialist Answers 3 Common Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Titanium dental implants have an impressive 95% survival rate. However, the key to keeping your implants in good shape is to maintain proper oral health. Consistent brushing and flossing, as well as regular dental checkups, are crucial to preserving your oral health. When you have dental implants, these habits are just as important, as neglect can lead to infections and implant failure. While dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, this is only achievable if you care for them properly.
Is dental implant placement painful?
Mini dental implant placement is a virtually painless procedure. We start by using a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortably numb before drilling the pilot hole and placing the implant. Since Dr. Hopkins doesn’t need to make an incision, mini implants result in minimal bleeding and faster healing. In many cases, he can place an implant-supported crown the same day as the implant, with little to no discomfort. We suggest over-the-counter pain medication to manage discomfort, though many patients find they don’t need it.
How much do dental implants cost?
The price of dental implant treatment varies from case to case. How many implants you need, the material of your restoration, and the number of appointments needed all affect the price. However, mini implants cost about half as much as traditional implants! With fewer appointments and parts, you pay much less using these one-piece implants.
We also offer flexible financing options through multiple third-party financing companies, like CareCredit, a healthcare credit card. You can use a CareCredit card for anything from orthodontics to procedures like mini implants, which insurance may not cover. If you’d like to learn more about our financing options and how we make dental care affordable, we’d be happy to assist!
Contact Dr. Hopkins at the Centre For Smile Designs for More Questions
Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth, whether you need a crown, bridge, or denture. Patients naturally have many questions about implant procedures, and Dr. Hopkins is here to help. As a mini dental implant specialist, Dr. Hopkins offers an option that is less invasive, more affordable, and quicker than traditional implants. With extensive experience performing mini implant procedures, he is well-versed in the process, timelines, and costs. Trust Dr. Hopkins for your dental care. Schedule a free implant consultation at the Centre for Smile Designs today!
Follow the Centre for Smile Designs on Facebook and Instagram to explore our various mini implant services!
