The mini implant was originally designed for use as an alternative to the regular implants to build up bone deterioration before inserting the larger implants. However, it has been found that the bone mass that is built up around the mini implant is actually greater than around the traditional implant making the mini implant almost impossible to remove.

Upon learning this, many dentists have gone on to study the mini implant. The knowledge learned has been astounding. Not only is the mini implant sturdier in the bone, but also it is much less invasive to the patient, and even those patients with traditional dentures can walk out of the dentists' office with a mini implant in less than an hour.

There is no cutting of the gums when mini implants are placed. They are simply drilled into the bone, usually four to six of them, and the old dentures are retrofitted to work with the mini implant system. This not only saves time, but a lot of needless pain and money.

It has been found, although it is not certain exactly how long this procedure will last, that a mini implant can be a good alternative to the loss of a single tooth by using it as a supporting structure for a crown. It seems the concerns are toward the weight bearing limitations of such a device. Many dentists do not recommend it for replacements that will get a large amount of force to prevent it from failing. Yet many dentists are also employing the practice with astounding results. This would definitely be something to talk to your dentist about.

Mini implants can even be used in patients that have had traditional dentures for many years, even with loss of bone tissue. After the removal of teeth, the bone begins to dissolve. There is no reason for it to be there if it doesn't have anything to do. However, the mini implants can be drilled into thinner bone than traditional implants and they work very well. This is due directly to the size of the mini implant. They are much more narrow than traditional posts and there is no need for building up the bone, or even bone grafts for most of these implants.

If you are thinking about implants, for one tooth or even several teeth, talk to your dentist about mini implants. Being able to walk out of the dentists' office with a bright smile that stays put in a little over an hour is a wonderful feeling.