Ben and Gary Show - Episode 75

Mini Implants - What You Need To Know

Recently, new minimally invasive dental implants have been in the news. The docs talk about how they are different from traditional implants and cases where they make sense.

Difference between minimally invasive and traditional Implants

Minimally Invasive Implants

Mini implants are skinnier than traditional implants. They are made in one piece - a thin spike topped with a ball to attach a crown.They were originally created to stabilize removable dentures. 

They have some drawbacks. Because of their skinny shape, they are susceptible to breaks. They cannot be repaired.

They also require a lot of cement to stabilize the attached crown. Cement can irritate the gums and lead to bone loss.

Because the crown attached to it is wider than the ball head, it is difficult to clean under it, causing gum irritation.

They can be a good solution as a temporary measure.

Traditional Implants

Traditional implants are wider. They are made in two part. One part fits into the jaw bone. It has threads like a screw. Bone grows around it and it is quite stable.

The second part attaches to the top of the "screw". It has a wide head upon which a crown is attached.

Not much cement is needed. If the implant head breaks, it can be repaired in most cases.

Conclusion

The docs agree that minimally invasive implants are a limited use case.