Unfortunately, in most people, over the years, the dentoalveolar system loses its functions. Prosthetics come to the rescue. Modern technologies make it possible to abandon removable structures. After all, for many years specialists have been restoring lost functions with the help of implantation. There are various models of devices that mimic the root. They also include mini-implants. About what it is, about their features, pros and cons, and will be discussed in this article.
What is this?
Not so long ago, a new technology was invented to restore the lost functions of the dentition. The operation is performed transgingivally. In the bone of the jaw arch, in the place where the root of the lost tooth was located, mini-implants are installed. What it is? The design is similar to a small screw. Its diameter does not exceed 2 mm. It is made of titaniumor its alloy. This material is the most preferred today in orthodontics. The abutment and implant are represented here as a one-piece construction. In the classic version, these parts are made separately, and during the operation they are connected.
When are mini-implants recommended?
Considered designs have good stabilization. This is undoubtedly their advantage. This characteristic allows them to be used immediately after implantation into the bone. Mini-implants for fixing removable dentures allow you to securely fix the structure. This makes it much more comfortable to use.
To correct the bite, the products in question are also recommended by orthodontists. For example, in a duet with braces, mini-implants contribute to the speedy correction of the defect. These simple devices help align the teeth in the right direction.
During the preparation of a row for prosthetics, implants are widely used in modern clinics. In the event that it is not possible to immediately restore the lost unit, they help prevent displacement of adjacent teeth.
Pros of technology
Why are the constructions in question so widely used today? They have a number of positive characteristics.
1. The minimum list of contraindications for the operation. This is due to the fact that certain requirements for the state of bone tissue are notessential.
2. Mini-implants can be installed in a short time. The duration of the implantation procedure does not exceed half an hour.
3. Thanks to the use of technology, the invasiveness of the operation is reduced.
4. Possibility to perform the procedure under local anesthesia.
5. No seams.
6. The possibility of immediate fixation of a removable prosthesis on the implant.
7. Large survival rate. The material quickly integrates into the jawbone.
8. Long service life.
9. The installation of the structure is much cheaper for the patient than the implantation of the classical model. This is due to the smaller size of the implant, the duration of the procedure and the absence of the need to use expensive equipment and instruments.
10. No need for bone augmentation.
11. Ideal for lightweight dentures.
12. Easy care.
Cons of technology
The main disadvantage of the design is its plus - it's small size. Still, these products are not fully capable of replacing the lost units. In comparison with the classical implant model, the considered design cannot serve as a support for a full-fledged prosthesis (bridge or crown). It is not designed for such a load. Due to the fact that the implant has a small diameter, it can simply perforate the bone tissue with a lot of pressure on it.
Indications
Let's consider what situationsare indications for mini-implants.
1. When the alveolar processes of the jawbone atrophied.
2. If there are contraindications to the operation in the classical way.
3. When the bone tissue of the jaw has undergone atrophic changes.
4. Experts recommend mini-implants for discomfort during the operation of removable structures.
5. Adentia. An excellent solution for the secure fixation of complete dental structures.
6. Experts recommend such products to patients who have reached old age.
Contraindications
Like any procedure, the technology under consideration has its contraindications.
1. The presence of a malignant tumor.
2. Diabetes.
3. Immune system disorders.
4. A patient condition in which any surgical intervention is contraindicated.
5. Alcohol or drug addiction.
6. Excessive tobacco smoking.
Algorithm for the procedure
- Before the procedure, the specialist determines the location of the implants and their number. Usually, it will be enough to install 4 units on the lower jaw with a complete absence of teeth. Due to the fact that the upper jaw has a rather loose bone structure, about 6 mini-implants are placed on it. They are placed at a distance of 5-8 mm from each other.
- Next, the specialist administers local anesthesia to the patient.
- Design of mini-implantsallows them to be screwed through a puncture in the gum. No incision needed.
- When the structures are screwed into the jaw, the specialist immediately attaches the prepared prosthesis to them.
- For a few days after surgery, the patient is advised to eat soft foods.
Mini-implants for fixing removable dentures: reviews
What do specialists and patients themselves say about the technology under consideration? Doctors pay attention to the fact that these small artificial roots can completely solve the problem of prosthetics with complete adentia. If earlier the patient was doomed to torment, exploiting a complete removable denture, now this problem is easy to solve. Mini-implants for fixing such structures have been used for more than 10 years. During this period, experts managed to evaluate their uniqueness.
Reviews about the technology sound only positive. The democratic cost of prosthetics allows the procedure to be carried out by a wide range of the population. While classical implantation is not affordable for every patient.
New technology allows you to restore completely lost functions of the chewing apparatus in a short period. At the same time, the structures have high osseointegration.
Orthodontists lament only that mini-implants are not suitable for fixing fixed dentures. Their small size does not allow to fully replace the lost root in order to install a crown or bridge on it.
Patient reviews also sound mostly positive. Many say that they wore removable dentures for some time. These designs were uncomfortable, rubbed, poorly fixed in the mouth.
After the implantation of mini-implants, patients notice a significant improvement in the quality of life. The design is securely held, does not rub. If necessary, it can be easily removed for cleaning. Patients say that thanks to this technology of prosthetics, there is no need to constantly use means for fixation. The operation itself went quickly. After all, all manipulations are carried out in one day.
In general, there are positive reviews about mini-implants. Experts and patients alike say the technology has far more pros than cons.
