Do you struggle to eat the foods you love because your dentures shift or poke your gums? Are you tired of using messy denture adhesives? If you’re ready to speak clearly and smile widely again, it’s time to consider mini dental implants. Mini implants are an FDA-approved treatment option that’s a fast and effective way to stabilize your dentures. Patients experience little to no discomfort after treatment and can begin enjoying their favorite foods again. With benefits like these, you’re likely ready to learn more about this procedure and how much mini implants cost.
Mini Dental Implant Size
They are called mini dental implants, but how small are they? A conventional implant measures approximately 5 mm in diameter, while a mini implant is about 3 mm.
Traditional implants have two separate pieces and require multiple appointments for placement. Mini dental implants consist of a single post with a ball-shaped top that attaches to the artificial tooth or denture.
The Benefits of Mini Implants
In addition to costing less than traditional dental implants, mini implants have other benefits, including the following:
- Less chance of needing a bone graft or sinus lift
- Non-invasive procedure
- Fewer appointments
- Faster healing time
Mini dental implants are an ideal alternative for patients who want to stabilize their dentures without the cost associated with conventional dentures.
Mini Implants Cost Explained
Many patients have heard about the price tag associated with dental implants — one implant might cost upwards of $1,000. Mini implants cost significantly less, but their price varies depending on each patient’s situation.
Some factors that alter the cost of treatment include:
- The cost of living in your area
- How much experience the dentist has
- Restorative materials used for the artificial tooth
- Preliminary treatment to prepare your mouth for implants
Another factor that influences your out-of-pocket costs is insurance coverage. Some policies cover implant procedures, but it depends on your policy. You can always ask your treating dentist if they offer payment plans to make the cost of your implants easier to manage.
What’s Included in the Price?
Your mini implants cost will include the following:
- A local anesthetic administered to numb the site
- The titanium rod
- Permanent artificial tooth or denture
You may be interested in adding sedation to your treatment, but that will increase the final cost.
The Lifespan of Mini Dental Implants
After your dentist places mini implants, they are considered permanent fixtures. However, some last longer than others.
Factors that affect their lifespan include:
- Tobacco use
- Oral home care routine
- Uncontrolled gum disease
- Excessive drug or alcohol use
- Medical conditions, such as osteoporosis
Because mini implants are smaller, they have lower chewing and biting pressure tolerance. This means that they may need more frequent repair than conventional implants.
Learn More About the Benefits of Mini Implants
According to the American College of Prosthodontics, about 12 million Americans have no teeth in one arch, while 23 million have no teeth at all. If you’re one of those millions and are interested in a cost-effective way to replace missing teeth, mini implants may be your solution.
Contact Scottsdale Dental and Facial Aesthetics to schedule a free consultation and learn more about mini implants.
