Mesa Mini Implants

Should you get standard dental implants or mini dental implants? Here we explain the benefits and drawbacks for each procedure.

The main advantage of mini implants is their cost. They are a much more affordable method of stabilizing a complete denture than the use of standard implants. They are easier to place, and faster, and there are fewer complications. All of this translates into a lower cost for you.

Some patients find that standard implants may not even be possible for them. They may be told that there is not enough bone within the gums to support a standard implant.

Mini implants can often be the solution in a case like this. They can also frequently be used to stabilize existing removable dentures. Standard removable dentures can also slip and come loose at awkward moments.

Where mini implants fall short is in their strength. They are not as strong as conventional implants. For example, a mini implants aren't strong enough to support crown and bridge work. But they are strong enough to stabilize a denture. And the presence of mini implants will prevent the bone loss that leads to facial collapse.

There are other situations in which mini implants can be an option, and Dr. Guffey and his associates can guide you through the process of deciding which option is best suited to your needs.

A conventional implant, left, compared to a mini implant, right.