Getting a mini implant on upper 1st premolar - will it last as long as a normal implant?

Question

I'm a 62 years old woman due to have a mini dental implant on upper 1st premolar. I have used a flexible denture for 15 years for the gap. I have good bone height but it thins out in the centre which is too thin for regular implant. My dentist assures me that the mini will last as long as normal implant and be strong enough for tooth crown. I'm unsure. Your opinion would be appreciated.

Gustavo De Oliveira, DMD · Answer

If your dentist knows your case well he/she would have recommended the solution that is most viable for your needs. If you are unsure, you should get a second opinion before placing that implant. Instead, you might have considered having bone grafted in the area that is thinned. This typically rebuilds bone height to prepare for a regular-sized implant. Since mini implants are a lot smaller, in my view, there is a limit to the force they could withstand which could result in a shorter lifespan.

Kerem Turgut Atasoy, DDS, PhD · Answer

Implants for posterior teeth should have enough strength to resist against heavy chewing forces. In that circumstance, if the material is being chosen as a narrower one than conventional implants, the implant should be a stronger material. Roxolid implants are made for that. If your implant is roxolid, it has an increased strength because it's mixture of zirconium and titanium.

Ajay Kashi, DDS · Answer

Every clinical situation is different. If your dentist has determined that a mini implant might be needed in the location of the upper 1st premolar, then this might very well be the case. If you do not have the room available for a normal implant then your options might be limited in many cases without more invasive interventions including additional grafting, orthodontic realignment of teeth, etc. Mini implants can last just as long as normal implants if they are done right and utilized in the right situation.

Getting a mini implant on upper 1st premolar - will it last as long as a normal implant?

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Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

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Getting a mini implant on upper 1st premolar - will it last as long as a normal implant?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.