Mini Dental Implants in Gulfport, MS

Over one-quarter of adults 65 or older have eight or fewer teeth remaining. You may have tried to replace your missing teeth with traditional dentures that are challenging to wear. Traditional dentures can create additional difficulties for patients already struggling.

One of the ideal solutions for these patients is dental implants. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry estimates that over 3 million Americans have at least one dental implant in place. And this number continues to grow by 500,000 every year!  

However, not everyone may be a candidate for conventional implants. Fortunately, there is another option: mini dental implants. As the name suggests, these alternative treatments are smaller versions of traditional implants created to help secure dentures.

John Hopkins, DDS, of Centre for Smile Designs provides gentle mini dental implant procedures in Gulfport, MS. If you want to improve your denture retention or enhance your smile, turn to Centre for Smile Designs.

What Are Mini Dental Implants? 

Mini Dental Implants in Gulfport, MSMini dental implants resemble conventional dental implants but are smaller in diameter. Traditional implants are approximately 5 mm around, with mini implants measuring less than 3 mm. These smaller dental devices are available in various lengths, and Dr. Hopkins will choose the best option that matches your jaw size and shape. 

Conventional dental implants consist of three pieces and require multiple appointments to complete the procedure, which involves surgically placing the titanium post, attaching the abutment, and placing the artificial tooth on top. 

Mini dental implants have a single titanium post with a connected adapter. This adapter allows a denture or artificial tooth to connect to the metal rod using a socket and an O-ring. 

Benefits of Choosing Mini Dental Implants 

Mini dental implants have a variety of uses, including serving as a replacement for a single tooth or several teeth, as well as stabilizing dentures. These implants can provide you with numerous benefits. 

Less Jawbone Structure Needed 

Conventional dental implants require adequate bone structure to support them. Because mini dental implants are smaller, they do not need as much jawbone, making them more suitable for patients who have lost jawbone density. 

No Required Bone Grafting 

For traditional implant placement to succeed, patients with lower jawbone density typically must have jawbone grafting before implant placement. The site can take one year to heal, which can substantially delay your implant placement. In contrast, mini dental implants do not require an additional bone grafting procedure. 

Less Invasive Surgery 

Mini dental implants do not require extensive surgical procedures like conventional dental implants do. Instead, Dr. Hopkins uses a local anesthetic, making the process less invasive and painful. 

Faster Recovery Time 

Because the procedure is less invasive, patients require less recovery after placing mini dental implants. This means that you will be able to resume your normal activities and begin eating the foods you enjoy more quickly. 

More Comfortable Placement and Repair Process 

Mini dental implants’ small size makes their placement and subsequent repairs more comfortable compared to conventional implants. 

More Permanent Solution Other Options 

Bridges and dentures are viable solutions to replace missing teeth, but they aren’t permanent. Both eventually need replacing, requiring you to go through treatment again. On the other hand, mini dental implants are surgically embedded into your jawbone, offering a much more permanent way to replace your missing teeth.  

Lower Costs  

The cost of placing mini dental implants varies between patients. However, they are generally about half the cost of conventional dental implants. 

The Procedure for Mini Dental Implant Placement 

Your journey to a permanent tooth replacement or securing your dentures begins with a free consultation to discuss your options with Dr. Hopkins. At this appointment, Dr. Hopkins will take advanced CBCT X-rays, so he can view your bone structure and determine the best placement for your mini dental implants. 

On the day of your implant placement, you can expect Dr. Hopkins to complete the following: 

  • Create a small hole in your jaw 
  • Place the titanium post into the hole, secure it, and tighten it 
  • Attach the artificial tooth to the post, and secure it onto the post 

Appointment lengths for this procedure vary between patients due to unique patient needs and pre-existing medical conditions. 

After Mini Dental Implant Surgery 

Every patient responds differently after undergoing surgery for mini dental implants. Most patients heal relatively quickly. If you feel discomfort, it can be managed using over-the-counter pain relief, like ibuprofen. Patients often return to their normal routine within 24 to 48 hours. 

Dr. Hopkins recommends sticking with a soft diet after surgery. Opt for foods like oatmeal, soups, and yogurt for a few days. Eating sticky or hard foods could increase the risk of the implant becoming loose. 

Make sure to contact Centre for Smile Designs if you experience the following symptoms after the procedure: 

  • Pain that lasts for more than a few days 
  • Severe pain 
  • Numbness in your jaw 

Additionally, let us know right away if your implant feels loose or falls out.  

How Long Do Mini Dental Implants Last?

Mini dental implants can provide patients with stable dentures and act as a tooth replacement for many years. To get the most out of your investment, it’s important to practice the same routine care as you do with your remaining natural teeth. 

Brush twice daily, and floss once daily. If you grind your teeth at night, you may wear your implants down prematurely. You can protect your new investment with a custom nightguard. 

These habits and routine dental visits should allow you to enjoy your mini dental implants for around six to nine years. 

Reclaim Your Quality of Life Today 

Replacing your missing teeth can improve your self-esteem, facial aesthetics, and function. You’ll be able to enjoy the foods you love again, like steak or corn on the cob. If you’re interested in replacing your missing teeth or stabilizing your dentures with mini dental implants in Gulfport, MS, Dr. Hopkins of Centre for Smile Designs can help. 

With decades of experience in comprehensive and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Hopkins can develop a personalized treatment plan for you to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful aesthetic outcome. Contact Centre for Smile Designs to schedule your consultation for mini dental implants today.