The Difference Between Dental Implants and Mini Dental Implants San Jose, CA
If you have lost one or more teeth, you can have full dental functions by choosing dental implants. With implant restoration, the dentist will offer you regular implants or mini dental implants. Mini dental implants are smaller than conventional implants and do not require as much healthy bone tissue for placement. It is a good alternative for patients who do not want or cannot undergo a bone graft procedure.
Mini dental implants are available at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics in San Jose and the surrounding area. They are a reliable option for patients who may be hesitant about the invasive process of regular implants or do not have enough bone mass in their jaws to support them. Call our office at (408) 791-2800 to schedule an appointment with NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics for a consultation.
What Are Mini Dental Implants?
Standard implants and mini dental implants are the two main types of dental implants used for tooth restoration. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), up to 35 million people in the United States have lost their entire lower or upper teeth, or both. Implants are titanium metal posts inserted into the jawbone, designed to mimic the tooth root and support a crown, bridge, or denture. Implant restorations are safe, stable, effective, and reliable.
However, since implants typically sit inside the jawbone, patients who have experienced jawbone resorption may not qualify for conventional dental implants without a preliminary bone graft procedure. Fortunately, mini dental implants provide a way out. With smaller dimensions, they do not need full bone mass for support and can restore one or more teeth on a dental arch without preparatory procedures.
Size and Shape of the Implants
Regular dental implants typically have a diameter of 3.25mm to 5mm, while mini dental implants can be between 2mm to 3mm wide. Due to their size, mini implants induce less effect on the jawbone and need less jawbone mass for support. They are also called narrow-diameter implants or small diameter implants (NDIs or SDIs).
Regular implants consist of two pieces – the implant post and abutment, which connect the restoration to the implant. On the other hand, the mini implant is a solid single-piece screw consisting of a post and a ball-shaped top that is visible above the gum line. Restorations fabricated for mini implants often have a rubber O ring that connects to the ball.
“Implants are titanium metal posts inserted into the jawbone, designed to mimic the tooth root and support a crown, bridge, or denture.”
Eligibility for Mini Dental Implants
When a tooth is lost, bone degeneration commences. If it takes too long before seeking restoration, the patient may have lost too much bone density to support a regular implant. Jawbone atrophy may also be a result of periodontitis (gum disease), teeth misalignment, or damage from a broken or knocked-out tooth. In this case, the dentist may recommend mini dental implants.
Additional cases where the dentist may suggest mini implants include:
- For front teeth restorations
- Premolar replacements
- Teeth positioned in a narrow gap
- For small teeth
- Where a person suffers from a chronic illness, has undergone radiation therapy or smokes heavily.
The only qualified professional that can determine which type of implant is right for you is an experienced implant dentist.
“If it takes too long before seeking restoration, the patient may have lost too much bone density to support a regular implant.”
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
Understanding the benefits of each treatment option helps patients make an informed decision. The benefits of mini dental implants include the following:
- Less invasive procedure. For traditional dental implants, the procedure is much more invasive. In contrast, mini implants are easier for an oral surgeon to place and require less intensive treatment.
- No need for bone grafting. Mini dental implants are sometimes an option in instances where there is not enough bone density for traditional implants.
- Fewer complications. The risks of oral infection, implant failure, or longer recovery times are often less significant with mini dental implants.
- Comfortable and convenient. Mini implants look, feel, and function similar to a natural tooth.
“Mini dental implants are sometimes an option in instances where there is not enough bone density for traditional implants.”
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Implants Can Prevent Tooth and Bone Loss
Implants, both traditional and mini, are of the greatest advancements in dentistry as they preserve the jawbone, do not decay, and function just like natural teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), an implant is so strong because of osseointegration, the process in which surrounding bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. This allows for bone preservation and strengthening of the surrounding and underlying tissues. Preserving the teeth, jawbone, and tissue secures surrounding teeth to the bone underneath, preventing or reducing the likelihood of tooth loss.
Bone atrophy refers to the deterioration of the underlying jawbone. Dental implants prevent bone atrophy the same way natural roots do: by sending signals to the implant and surrounding bone. The implant acts as a stimulator to promote bone generation and keep them functioning properly. Both traditional and mini dental implants have this advantage and can prevent tooth and bone loss.
“Dental implants prevent bone atrophy the same way natural roots do: by sending signals to the implant and surrounding bone.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What are the benefits of mini dental implants?
Q. How do dental implants prevent tooth and bone loss?
Q. How do I choose between traditional and mini dental implants?
Q. What are mini dental implants?
Q. What are eligibility requirements for mini dental implants?
People Also Ask
Q. What is the most durable option for replacing missing teeth?
Q. How do dental implants compare to dentures?
Q. Who are the right candidates for teeth replacement?
Q. What can patients do to reduce their anxiety about receiving a dental implant?
Choosing Between Implants and Mini Dental Implants
Implants are often best for replacing a single tooth, where mini dental implants are perhaps preferable when looking to support dentures. However, every patient is unique and should evaluate the pros and cons of each option, along with discussing the steps involved in the process with a dentist before making a final decision.
A dental professional can place mini dental implants in the jaw, similar to that of a traditional dental implant. Mini dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone. With that said, traditional implants typically require more bone density than mini implants to ensure a secure hold long-term.
How to Choose the Most Effective Option for You
While traditional implant placement is not as invasive, there are similarities. Both options require accessing the jaw and placing the implant into the bone, but mini dental implants do not require as much support. However, mini implants may not provide as secure a hold. Although the placement of the artificial tooth happens sooner, and the recovery time is generally much quicker with mini dental implants.
Your dentist may recommend one option over the other depending on the amount of bone density you currently have. Mini dental implants are possibly an option at times when traditional implants are not. If both are viable long-term solutions, then the patient's preference will likely be the deciding factor.
“Mini dental implants are the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Implants and Mini Implants
Q. Are there differences between implants and mini dental implants in terms of durability?
A. Dental implants are created from titanium, a biocompatible metal that fuses with the jawbone. Both options are highly durable, but their lifespan typically depends on the level of care provided. By brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can keep your oral cavity and implants in excellent condition for a long time.
Q. Will mini dental implants be as strong as my natural teeth?
A. In most cases, mini implants have the same strength – if not more – than natural teeth. Mini implants provide full dental functionality and patients will be able to eat all their favorite meals. However, you need to be careful since implant restorations are just as vulnerable to damages as natural teeth.
Q. Is the placement procedure painful?
A. Many patients often register their surprise when they realize the convenience of the implant procedure. If you suffer from dental anxiety, you should talk to the dentist. They will discuss options to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
Q. How long does recovery take?
A. With mini dental implants, you can return to your routine almost immediately. The procedure is minimally invasive, which allows for fairly fast healing. In the first 24 hours after the procedure, you may need to take only soft foods and follow your dentist's instructions for a full recovery.
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Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
If you are interested in restoring your smile, call us at 408-791-2800 for more information about implants and mini dental implants. We are here to help you make the right decision about replacing missing or severely damaged teeth. Our friendly team is willing and able to answer any questions you have about the process.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
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