Mini dental implants are a smaller alternative dental implant design. If you’ve ever been told you don’t qualify for dental implants or you’re searching for a different type of implant treatment, mini implants may be a great option to consider. 


What is a Mini Dental Implant?

mini dental implants in Dallas Ft. Worth

A mini dental implant is a small-scale version of a conventional dental implant. It is about half the width and length of traditional implants, making them much smaller than natural tooth roots. 

Most mini implants are made out of titanium, which is a biocompatible, hypoallergenic metal frequently used in medical and surgical procedures. Titanium is also the material of choice for full-sized dental implants. 

Since mini dental implants are so small, they require little bone support. This makes them ideal for denture wearers who want a stabilized overdenture but otherwise lack the bone support for full arch implants. Our DFW specialists might also recommend mini implants for narrow spaces, like lower front teeth (incisors.)

Uses for Mini Dental Implants

Variations of mini dental implants have been used by orthodontic specialists for years. Not for tooth replacement, but to serve as a stable anchor for moving and realigning teeth. 

In traditional implant treatment, mini implants play a special role that traditional full-sized implants cannot: fitting into smaller spaces and providing same-day prosthesis retention. 

How do Mini Dental Implants Work?

A mini dental implant works almost exactly the same way a full-sized implant does. Made of the same materials, it’s set directly into the bone where there is a missing tooth. Like conventional implants, the surface of a mini implant encourages osseointegration, which fuses the restoration to the surrounding bone structures. 

Bear in mind that because of the size of mini implants, they are not capable of supporting as much weight or biting pressure as a traditional implant. Since that’s the case, our implant experts only recommend mini implants when certain restrictions are inhibiting traditional implant treatment.  

When to Choose Mini Implants

Although we don’t use mini dental implants as often as traditional versions, they still hold a rightful place in implant therapy. Especially when we’re addressing issues like limited bone or space in the mouth. 

While we might not anchor a permanent, full-arch restoration with mini implants, they play a role in cases with unique circumstances. 

A few examples of when mini dental implants might be recommended include:

  • Same-day dental implant treatments
  • Retaining removable overdentures
  • Single tooth replacement 

Keep in mind that the circumstances relating to choosing mini dental implants are not the same for everyone. It’s extremely important that you work with a team of specialists—like the implant experts at ARCHPOINT—before choosing alternative implant designs. 

Mini vs. Traditional Dental Implants

Dental Implant Dallas

For most tooth replacement needs, full-sized dental implants are the preferred solution. Traditional implants offer a level of support and retention that exceeds anatomical teeth, making them ideal for supporting anything from a crown or bridge to an All-on-4 appliance

On the other hand, mini dental implants can be installed in places where a full implant doesn’t fit. Such as a narrow space between two lower front teeth or if you have an extremely narrow bone ridge in your jaw. 

Since your implant needs to be entirely encompassed by bone, it’s not appropriate to install larger implants into narrow bony areas. Mini implants reduce the width and length of the implant restoration, making it possible to install them in a safe and predictable manner. 

How are Mini Dental Implants Installed?

The placement of mini dental implants is typically simple and straightforward. Due to their small size and the minimally-invasive nature of the procedure, local anesthetic is typically all that’s required for a comfortable installation. The installation takes a matter of minutes with little to no recovery or irritation.

In most cases, mini dental implants are “restored” on the same day that they’re placed. That is, we attach some type of a restoration over them to visibly fill in your missing teeth. Since mini implants do not support the same amount of weight or pressure as a full implant, there usually isn’t a need to wait several weeks for them to integrate with your bone. That’s why they’re so popular for same-day procedures like immediate overdentures. 

Caring for Mini Implants

Your home care routine should be the same for mini dental implants as it is regular implants or your natural teeth. Make a point to brush around your implants daily, taking care to clean immediately along the gums at the base of your implant where plaque tends to accumulate. 

Always Talk to a Specialist

As dental implant experts, the team at ARCHPOINT offers comprehensive implant therapy for people of all backgrounds. If you’re someone who is hesitant about getting dental implants or you’ve been told that you don’t qualify for implant treatment, it’s always best to talk to a specialist. 

Our highly-skilled team of implant experts can work with you to decide the best treatment for your unique circumstances. Whether it’s placing mini dental implants, completing a same-day treatment, or helping you select the best type of full-mouth rehabilitation option, we have everything you need for your smile to look and feel its best. 

During your initial exam and consultation, we’ll discuss your needs and priorities. From there, our implant dentists will review the type of implant options available and weigh the pros and cons of each one as it fits your smile and lifestyle. From there, our treatment coordinators will work up a customized plan that outlines all of our recommendations. You can see exactly how much time is required, what the financial investment will be, and even discuss payment plan options well before committing to any treatments. 

Mini Implants in Dallas and Ft. Worth

Considering mini dental implant treatment? ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry is your choice for expert implant therapy in DFW. With convenient locations in Dallas and Ft. Worth, we make specialized care more accessible and convenient than ever. 

Reserve your mini dental implant consultation today to learn more!