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Questions denture wearers ask

Dental Mini Implant Procedures

Dental implants are small posts made of extremely strong titanium. They are carefully positioned under the gums in the jawbone where artificial replacement teeth (crowns) can then be mounted on top of them. Mini implants on the other hand are used to secure a person's dentures. Click below for more answers to common questions.

» What exactly are dental implants?

Constructed of titanium steel, implants provide the dentist with a stable support structure on which to attach a dental prosthesis. There are different types and sizes, each serving a certain purpose. Some may be used to hold dentures in place, while others are used to replace one or more natural teeth lost to decay, accidents, etc. Still other dental implants are well-suited for both type treatments.

» How do mini-implants work?

If the patient is having issues with their dentures shifting or slipping, tiny miniature implants can be surgically inserted into the jawbone below the gum-line. There they fuse to the bone and become a replacement root for your tooth -- providing a very stable support mechanism.

Next, a fixture is put into the denture's base so that it snaps precisely onto the implant and thus holds artificial teeth firmly in place. A similar technique can be used as a foundation for bridges too.

» What are the benefits of dental implants?

There are enormous benefits to dental implant procedures. Often dependent upon which type is used, the patient is able to eat, smile and talk in only an hour after treatment.

Another advantage of implants is that compared to traditional bridgework, the dentist doesn't have to grind down healthy tooth surfaces and prepare adjacent teeth -- instead, prosthetics can be attached directly to the implant. With mini-implants, the insertion procedure is even less invasive since the diameter of the implant is so narrow; they can be effortlessly inserted right through gum tissue.

Mini-implants are today the most effective, safe dental procedure available for denture stabilization. Patients are immediately relieved of discomfort and soreness from loose-fitting dentures and in many cases their social interaction and lifestyles are improved substantially.

Together with single visit completion time and a high degree of safety -- unmatched by conventional implant systems, new mini-implant procedures represent the leading solution for denture wearers.

» How long will my implants last?

Your implants require maintenance and good oral hygiene just like natural teeth. Since these are structures in the mouth, your gums surrounding the implant as well as contact points and surfaces between dentures should be brushed and kept clean of food particles.

Together with proper care and regular visits to your dentist, you can expect your implants to last decades -- about 15 years is average for most people. It's significant to note that due to more wear and stresses, rear molar implants normally will not last as long as implants placed at front of the mouth.

» Can anyone get implants?

Generally, you need sufficient bone and your gums should be healthy to support a standard implant. On the other hand, a miniature implant is much more slender and uses a smaller thread design -- thus allowing it to be used effectively for patients with less bone density.

The same as with natural teeth, any implant therapy can have problems or fail due to normal causes such as osteoporosis, inadequate oral hygiene, a heavy biting habit, or lack of follow-up maintenance care by your dentist. However, a lost mini implant can be replaced at a comparatively minimal expense and with less gum/bone deterioration than conventional implants.

Before planning treatment, your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your oral hygiene, overall dental health, your life-style and jawbone condition to determine if you're a candidate for dental implants.

» How much do mini-implants cost?

Mini dental implants are very affordable and cost only a fraction of the prices charged for conventional implant treatment. Each patient must be evaluated on the individual merits of their condition and needs; total costs are determined by a full diagnosis, x-rays and suggested treatment. We will give you an exact price along with an estimate of what fees your insurance policy will cover, if applicable.

» What type of payments do you accept?

As courtesy to our patients, if you have dental insurance we will file a claim on your behalf. In many instances we can accept payments directly from insurance companies.

We accept personal checks, cash and debit/credit card payments. If you need extended payments, please ask about our Dental Fee Plan. Multiple appointment treatment can be paid over the total number of appointments scheduled.

The patient is always responsible for their account regardless of coverage by an insurance company. Denied insurance claims or unpaid remaining balances after 30 days become the patient's responsibility.

Implant Dentistry : La Jolla, San Diego

You no longer have to endure loose fitting dentures or those messy adhesives to keep them in place. Caring professionals at our La Jolla, San Diego dental practice are ready to explain how a mini-implant procedure can help relieve you of the worry, embarrassment and even poor health often associated with denture problems.
before implants patient before implants after implants after implant restoration Find out if you're a candidate for mini implants and schedule an evaluation.