How Are Mini Dental Implants Placed? - Willoughby Dental in Greenville

One of the unique benefits of mini dental implants is that they can be placed quicker and less invasively than full-size regular dental implants. You can enjoy your newly improved smile sooner and with less discomfort than you would if you opted for regular implants.

Read on as Dr. Matthew Warner of Willoughby Dental sheds light on the process of placing mini dental implants.

The Anatomy of a Mini Dental Implant

Before Dr. Warner describes how a mini dental implant is placed, it is helpful to understand the hardware that makes up the tooth replacement.

Mini dental implants have a medical-grade titanium post about half the diameter of a full-size implant post. The top of the post has a ball-shaped head that, when placed, extends above the gumline. This head snaps onto the designated spot on the false tooth restoration (i.e., either a crown or a denture) and the tooth rests on top of the gum tissue.

The Mini Dental Implant Placement Process

Unlike full-size dental implants, which require at least two visits to install, mini dental implants can be placed in a single visit. Local anesthesia is administered for patient comfort.

First, Dr. Warner carefully plans out the placement of the mini dental implant or implants, based on the anatomy of the mouth and the jawbone. A small opening is created in the gum tissue and then the jawbone beneath the gap left by the missing tooth. Then, the mini dental implant post is inserted into the opening in the jawbone and tightened so it fits securely. Next, the crown or denture appliance snaps onto the top of the implant post. Finally, any last-minute tweaks are made to adjust the fit or comfort of the implant and false tooth.

Because the procedure to place mini dental implants is less invasive than what is required to place full-size implants, there is little pain afterward. Over-the-counter pain medication can alleviate any discomfort.

In the months following mini dental implant placement, the post integrates with the jawbone, becoming part of the bone’s anatomy. This provides a sturdy foundation for the artificial tooth or teeth, and keeps the jawbone stimulated and strong.

Contact Dr. Warner Today

If you are interested in replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants, Dr. Warner invites you to come into our office for a consultation. He can determine whether mini dental implants are right for your needs, and explain more about the procedure to place them.

To schedule your appointment, please call (864) 546-4242 or email Willoughby Dental today.

Dental Services

    
 
 
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   Karen Newcomb 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am a newer patient to Willoughby Dental. I called on a Thursday morning and asked if they could see me later that afternoon as I was in pain. The receptionist was extremely kind and friendly, as she always is, and was able to find a spot to fit me into the schedule at the end of the day. I was extremely grateful since it was a last minute phone call and I was in pain.

Dr. Willoughby was friendly, as always, and assessed my issue. He and his assistant were able to fix my tooth Ina short amount of time. After the novacaine wore off, I was no longer in pain.

I am very grateful that Willoughby Dental is a flexible practice and was able to get me in because I was in pain. I have had dentists in the past that, even though I was in pain, they were not at all flexible and would  not fit me into the schedule to fix my issue.

I highly recommend Willoughby Dental. Dr. Willoughby is professional, knowledgeable and friendly. He cares about his patients
  
 
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   Blake 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Warner is by far the best dentist I’ve ever been to, both in professionalism and skill. I’ve unfortunately dealt with some unique dental issues, yet you’d never know it thanks to the comfort and care he and his team provide at every visit. They make you feel genuinely appreciated as a patient. I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else!
  
 
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   William Yaeger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had 6 month cleaning which was well done and refreshing as usual. Dr Warner’s patients always receive the best care which is why I have been a patient for many years and highly recommend him.
  
 
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   Patrick Hunter 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service, pleasant staff and thorough care. Dr. Matt and his team are great. Been going here for years.
  
 
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   Edna Hollingsworth 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a pleasant experience. Your friendliness and professionalism made me comfortable to be there.
  
 
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   Jennifer Russo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very detailed and thorough dentist and staff.
Total perfection with my tooth replacement.
Highly recommend this dental practice.