Mini Implants vs. Traditional Implants: Understanding the Differences

Tooth loss is a common struggle affecting nearly half of U.S. adults aged 24 to 60. For many grappling with its challenges, determining where to start can be the toughest step. If you are looking to replace your missing teeth and don’t know where to begin, dental implants may be the solution for you. At Esparza Dentistry, we want to help. We recognize the significance of making informed choices regarding your dental well-being. Keep reading to learn about mini implants vs. traditional implants. At your free consultation, we will answer any questions you have and help you make the best decision for your smile.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are prostheses that can replace one tooth or several teeth from the root to the crown. A titanium post is anchored to the jawbone, which holds an artificial crown, dental bridge, or denture. Once fully integrated with the jawbone, dental implants function like natural teeth. At Esparza Dentistry, we offer mini dental implants due to their many benefits over conventional ones.

When comparing mini implants vs. traditional implants, the most noticeable difference is their size. Mini implants are significantly smaller, making them an ideal choice for patients who lack sufficient jawbone density or cannot undergo surgery. If you were ever told you don’t have enough bone for a traditional implant, mini implants may be right for you.

The Procedure

Traditional Implants

In terms of the procedure, mini implants and traditional implants differ significantly. Traditional dental implants consist of a metal screw approximately 5 mm in diameter that is implanted directly into the jaw. Once the screw is placed, the jawbone needs to heal completely. Then, the restoration can be connected using a separate abutment piece.

The larger screw used in traditional implant procedures requires significant space in the jawbone. As a result, the procedure is more invasive than mini dental implants, requiring ample recovery time. Additionally, due to the size of the screw, you may require bone grafting to complete the procedure. In some cases, the traditional implant process can take up to a year to complete.

Mini Implants

Because mini dental implants are substantially smaller, the procedure is minimally invasive and much faster. In most cases, the implants can be placed in one day. At less than 3 mm in diameter, the slim titanium post is inserted directly into the jawbone, after which the restoration is attached to the post immediately. Unlike traditional implants that require a separate abutment piece, the mini dental implant has a built-in connector. This design and the mini implants’ immediate strength allow for a more efficient procedure.

Another benefit is that, in many cases, bone grafting is not needed for mini dental implants. This simplicity is an advantage when considering mini dental implants vs. traditional implants, especially for those seeking a less complex dental solution.

Recovery Time

When considering mini implants vs. traditional implants, recovery time is a crucial aspect. Mini implants typically have a faster healing process and less post-procedure discomfort. For traditional dental implants, the recovery time can take approximately four to six months. Because mini dental implant procedures are less invasive and less complex, recovery time is much quicker. In most cases, patients can recover within 24 to 48 hours. In terms of longevity, both mini and traditional implants are designed to last many years with proper care. Maintenance routines for both are similar, involving regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Cost Comparison: Mini Implants vs. Traditional Implants

For many patients, the cost of dental procedures can be a significant factor when considering the implants that would work best for them. Mini dental implants generally cost less than traditional implants. In many instances, traditional implants include bone grafting, requiring more appointments and a longer recovery time. Because mini dental implants will require fewer materials and eliminate the need for bone grafting in most cases, they can often be placed in just a single day. These factors contribute to a lower overall cost. Still, if you’d like to finance your mini implants, we work with three financing companies to help you pay for your treatment in manageable monthly installments.

Learn More About Mini Implants vs. Traditional Implants

At Esparza Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing the best solutions so that you can achieve optimal oral health. That’s why we offer innovative mini dental implants, an implant technology backed by over 20 years of research and thousands of success stories.

Understanding the differences between mini implants vs. traditional implants can be challenging. At your free consultation, we can help determine if mini dental implants are right for you. At Esparza Dentistry in Ontario, CA, we are committed to providing dental care tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about the benefits of mini implants.