Only 4mm of Space: Are Mini Dental Implants an Option?

Question:

Guy asks:
I have a missing front lower tooth and have had a bridge. However, I would like to have an implant now. But, I have 4mm space and have been told I would need 6mm to do a dental implant. I'm wondering, can I get a mini dental implant in this type of situation? If so, any doctors in the mid-Michigan that can be recommended. I'm from Freeland, Michigan. Thanks.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes ONLY. It is not medical advice. The use of the Web Site is at your own risk. >>Read More

Mini Dental Implants

Printer-friendly version

Expert Advice and Comments

Mini Dental Implant for Small Space

Answered By: Dr. Benjamin D. Oppenheimer - Amherst , NY

Guy,

A mini dental implant is really the ONLY implant option here. The lower front jaw typically has ideal bone for implants so this is a good application. Even though you may be led to believe by some dentists that mini implants are only for dentures this is not the case. Thousands of small diameter implants have been used to replace missing teeth with crowns over the past few decades with excellent results. I use mini dental implants in my dental office in Buffalo, NY almost every day and I can say that no other procedure is met with more patient satisfaction.

Good Luck,

Dr. Ben :)

Benjamin D. Oppenheimer, DDS
http://www.drmdi.com

Best Choice

Answered By: Dr. Theodore M. Grossman - Aventura , FL

Hi Guy

Expecting a stand alone mini(1.8-2.0mm)to support a crown in the incisor area is unpredictable. This area receives high shearing forces when you bite an apple or carrot.

Ridge spreading or grafting to achieve 6-7mm. width will allow conventional implant placement (IMHO).

Best of Luck
Theodore M Grossman DMD
www.Fortlauderdaleoralsurgery.com
(305)466-1804

Dr. Theodore M. Grossman

Mini implant for incisors

Answered By: Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi - Bethesda , MD

Hi
I agree that mini implants are not the best option for replacement of any teeth as they are associated with high degree of failure. Also it is difficult and unpredictable to create proper tissue architecture and form in the smile zone. While it is an option, I recommend to create the proper space with orthodontics and have a regular implant placed which can provide a lifetime of predictable result.

I speak with many specialists around the country, both surgeons and prosthodontists, and I am yet to meet anyone who supports and uses mini-implants in their practice. The evidence does not support their use for long term success. They may be helpful in short term treatment providing transitional or temporary support.

Thanks
Dr. Kazemi

Dr. H. Ryan Kazemi
http://www.facialart.com/

4mm of space

Answered By: Dr. Leonard Smith - San Jose , CA

Dear Guy: The replies you have gotten are all very good. Each tooth, each implant has specific conditions that we cannot evaluate through this forum. If you were my family member I would follow these guidelines: 1. get a CT xray to determine the true bone volume. You say 4mm, but is that front to back or side to side, vertically? There are many new implant products that now bridge the "gap" from mini to standard diameters and 2. Find an experienced implant dentist and ask tough questions such as how many implants have they placed and can you show me a similar case you have documented. There are many factors that go into a treatment plan so please don't try to find a quick solution. Take your time to research the issue.
Sincerely

Dr. Leonard H. Smith

Post new comment

Topics

Implants for Dummies

Do you feel like a dummy when it comes to dental implants? Don't worry. We can help. Below are popular posts for those just starting out with implants.

Search