Mini Implants

Mini implants are often advertised as being noninvasive, permanent and more affordable. These advertisements often claim that the procedure for placing mini implants is much simpler than traditional implant procedures and therefore, easier on the patients.

Mini implants are actually intended to be "transitional" implants to stabilize dentures temporarily while the bone is remodeling around the standard size implants that will be supporting the final replacement teeth. In other words, they are intended to provide temporary stabilization, and they are only indicated for certain types of cases. They are not intended to support a final bridge or prosthesis.  

Also, since there is relatively little data on mini implants, it is important to question the purpose of utilizing mini implants if they are recommended as part of your treatment plan. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.