Learn about Traditional & Mini Dental Implants at LiveWell Dental

There are many circumstances that can cause a tooth to go missing. Dental trauma, poor oral hygiene, aging and tooth decay are all culprits for missing teeth. Fortunately, dental implants have become the most efficient and permanent method for restoring lost, extracted, or damaged teeth. At LiveWell Dental, North Smithfield dentist Dr. Frank Gibbons provides traditional implants, mini dental implants, and other implant-supported restorations so that patients may regain a full, healthy smile.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant consists of a titanium screw that is surgically placed into a healthy jawbone and acts as a replacement for the root of a tooth. During a healing period of four to six weeks, the implant will fuse with the existing jawbone, allowing it to stabilize and keep natural teeth from shifting.

Dental implant are designed to serve as a root for a single artificial crown and may be used in conjunction with other implants to support a bridge or complete denture. The result is a seamless, natural-looking smile that appears as if a tooth never went missing.

How are Mini Dental Implants Different?

Like traditional dental implants, mini dental implants act as a durable replacement for the root of missing teeth. However, placing mini dental implants does not involve the several follow-up appointments typical of full implants. Dentists can now place mini dental implants in a single appointment, which creates faster healing and long-lasting results.

Mini dental implants are also less invasive than traditional implants, and are generally a gentler procedure to receive. Patients who have experienced extensive bone loss as a result of tooth loss may benefit from a smaller implant and less invasive placement.

Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants in North Smithfield

Typically, mini dental implants are used to support a denture or overdenture, and are placed in the jaw four at a time, five millimeters apart. A small hole is created within the jaw to secure the future mini implant. With this treatment, patients do not need to worry about stitches and typically complete treatment within three weeks of implant placement.

Patients receiving full dental implants experience a longer healing process, but have their implants placed using computer-guided technology. Three-dimensional imaging allows our North Smithfield implant dentist to create a virtual surgical guide for dental implant placement, meaning that the outcome of your dental implant procedure can be determined before the implants are placed.

Need to Replace a Tooth? Call LiveWell Dental Today

Mini dental implants are a cost-effective, non-invasive, and efficient way to replace teeth. For more information about mini dental implants or any of our dental implants in Rhode Island, contact LiveWell Dental and schedule a consultation. We will help you determine whether dental implants are right for you; call us today!