Mini Implants for Dentures: The Secret to Long-Lasting Stability

Traditional dentures are common among the older generations, and so are the challenges that often come with them. While full dentures can restore some bite function and bring back your smile, they cannot replicate the same function you’re used to with natural teeth. To function properly, dentures must be stable, but many individuals struggle with prosthetics that feel too loose. An upper denture relies on suction, which requires adequate moisture in your mouth and a big plastic plate that covers the roof of your mouth. Lower dentures rely on the jawbone for support, but as teeth are lost, the jawbone naturally deteriorates, reducing stability. Many people turn to denture adhesives to prevent shifting, but they can be messy and ineffective. At the Centre for Smile Designs, we offer mini implants for dentures to provide a secure, stable, and functional smile!

How We Use Mini Implants for Dentures

Dental implants are titanium posts that support crowns, bridges, and dentures. At our practice, Dr. John Hopkins and his experienced staff use mini dental implants, an amazing alternative to traditional implants.

What Are Mini Implants?

Mini implants are narrow-diameter implants that are less than 3 millimeters in diameter. Aside from measuring half the width of traditional dental implants, mini implants are just one piece. So, what does that mean for the patient? It means that more people are eligible for implant dentures—even those who have already experienced some bone loss. Owing to their slim design, mini implants don’t require as much space in the bone as traditional implants. And because they’re only one piece instead of multiple, Dr. Hopkins can place them in a single visit.

These unique size and design qualities also allow Dr. Hopkins to use a minimally invasive placement technique. No incisions or stitches are needed! Instead, he’ll make a small pilot hole through the gums and screw the implant into the bone beneath. Patients are surprised at how quick the procedure is, how little healing is needed, and how much more affordable mini implants are than conventional implants.

What Implant Dentures Do We Offer?

We offer three options for implant dentures, each with its own advantages.

• Snap-in dentures: This option is the least costly and looks the most like traditional dentures. The difference is that snap-in dentures are secured with 4-8 mini implants. This removable denture lets you snap your false teeth off and on the implants. But, because the prosthetic is so stable, you no longer need the bulky base that covers your upper palate or lower jaw ridge. As a result, you’ll experience better stability and comfort with a snap-in denture.
• Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: A roundhouse bridge is an advanced denture alternative. It replaces a full arch of teeth without the need for a large plastic base. Six to ten mini implants anchor the semi-removable option—which is only removed by Dr. Hopkins during your routine visits. Using durable zirconia teeth, you’ll enjoy this solution’s superior function and feel.
• Non-removable roundhouse bridge: The non-removable roundhouse bridge uses the same durable materials as the semi-removable one but is cemented onto 10-12 mini implants. This provides maximum stability and functionality. For this option, there’s no need to remove your false teeth—you simply care for them like natural teeth with consistent brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental visits. If you’re looking for a “set it and forget it” solution that looks, feels, and functions like real teeth, this option is for you!

How Mini Implants Prevent Bone Loss

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants can stall bone loss because they replace missing tooth roots. You might not realize it, but your tooth roots play an important role in maintaining the structure of your jawbone by providing essential stimulation.

The jawbone constantly renews itself by breaking down old tissue and replacing it with new tissue. This remodeling process is driven by your biting and chewing forces. Each time you bite and chew, the roots apply pressure to the jawbone, helping to keep it strong.

However, when you lose teeth, you also lose the stimulation the roots provide. Without this stimulation, new bone tissue forms too slowly, causing the jawbone to lose volume. This process, known as bone resorption, has numerous consequences, including difficulty eating and visible changes to your face!

These processes also explain why a traditional denture feels loose over time. As the jawbone breaks down, the prosthetic no longer fits snugly against your mouth’s hard tissues.

Dental implants are the most effective way to combat bone loss because they restore the stimulation your jawbone needs to stay healthy and strong.

Schedule a Free Consultation at the Centre for Smile Designs Today!

At the Centre for Smile Designs, we use mini implants for dentures to ensure a more comfortable and stable fit for your false teeth. We offer various implant denture systems because we realize that a “one size fits all” model is limiting for patients with diverse needs and preferences.

While mini implant dentures provide immediate improvements in stability and function, they also promote long-term jaw health by replacing missing tooth roots and stimulating the jawbone. This innovative approach ensures that your dentures look, feel, and function as naturally as possible, enhancing your self-confidence and quality of life.

Schedule a free implant consultation today to explore our various implant denture options!

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