Insufficient Bone for Regular Implants: Can Mini Implants Stabilize My Upper Denture?

Hi Karen
There are many factors involved regarding the use of dental implants to stabilize your denture or help you get rid of it completely. A few important considerations are (1) what the denture opposes (another denture, natural lower teeth, partial denture, etc?), (2) the density or quality of the bone in which the implants are placed, and (3) the type of connection used to attach the denture. Using "mini implants" is an option, but only using a couple on each side may not be sufficient, particularly if you have natural lower teeth.
In my experience, many patients who are told they have "insufficient bone" often really do have enough for the placement of more conventional sized implants to help retain a denture. The same holds true for many patients looking to get rid of their removable denture and once again have teeth that are not removable. With the "All-on-4" technique, many patients who have been told they are "stuck with their denture" are actually very good candidates for a fixed (non-removable) implant supported bridge...and almost always without the need for bone grafting. You might consider this alternative as well.

Good luck!
Dr. Steven Moss

Dr. Steven M. Moss
MALO Advanced Oral Rehabilitation

Karen-
I am not a big fan of mini-implants on the maxillary jaw due to the softness of the bone, especially in the more posterior regions of the maxillary jaw.
Cases such as yours can usually be treated successfully with standard sized implants, as there are numerous techniques which can create sufficient bone to allow a conventional, implant-supported prosthesis to be fabricated for you.
I would also obtain a Cone Beam study (CT Scan) to allow your implant surgeon to learn the precise anatomy that is present in your maxillary jaw which would then allow him or her to properly outline your options to you.
Good luck.
Jeffrey R. Brook, D.M.D.

Dr. Jeffrey Brook
http://www.periowellness.com/