Mini Implants - Smile Designs by Dr. Charlotte Gerry
Description

What are Mini-Implants?

It’s a small titanium screw that is placed in your jaw. Several mini-implants help to hold a denture in place securely, eliminating the need for harmful adhesives. They allow the denture wearer to eat more confidently and smile knowing the denture is secure.

What does the dentist do to place the implants?

It is a quick and easy process to place the implants and is performed with just a local anesthetic. Dr. Gerry can also use oral conscious sedation if this makes you more comfortable. A small hole is made in the gums and jaw, the mini-implant is gently screwed into the bone. The top of the implant is above the gums and allows the denture to snap into place securely in the mouth.

How long does it take?

Here is the wonderful part of mini-implants; they can be completed in one appointment and usually in just one hour.

Will I need a New Denture?

In most cases no! A wonderful benefit of the mini-implant process is that we can use your existing denture. The denture does need to fit and be in good shape but yes we can usually use your denture.

Why would I need a new denture?

Some Dentures are just too old to use or have a poor bite. In other cases they have been adjusted and relined to the point that they are worn-out and not able to fit the implants.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for mini-implants?

If you have had radiation therapy for cancer in the head or neck, or suffer from chronic osteoporosis then you may not be an ideal candidate. Certain medications also affect the implant success rate. Even if you have had radiation treatment or osteoporosis there may still be hope for you. The best way to determine if you are a candidate for mini-implants is to come in for a consolation with Smile Designs.

How successful are they?

Mini-implants have close to a 90% success rate for patients who have no conditions or pre-implant complications.

What maintenance is there?

The Doctor will schedule a post-op visit after the procedure to check the implants. Then regular dental visits to check the progress of the implants. Sometimes the O-rings that help hold the denture in place will wear out and need to be replaced. It is a simple and quick visit to replace the O-rings in the denture.

Can mini-implants replace my unsightly claps that hold my denture?

Yes this is a great way to move away from unsightly claps.

Dr. Gerry, what separates you from other Dentists?

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