Over 50 million people in the United States struggle with eating, talking and smiling because of uncomfortable prosthetic devices in their mouth. Many dental patients endure loose, ill-fitting dentures that are unpleasant to wear; they withdraw from social situations because they’d rather not wear their dentures at all. But there is a solution that is safe, effective and painless. Mini implants have been around for about 20 years. Originally the ultra-small screws were designed to act as a transitional device to support bridgework. Today, they’re used to replace natural roots, stabilizing dentures and other prosthetic devices used as replacements for tooth loss. The mini implants are titanium screws that are as thin as toothpicks and can fit in between other dental work. Mini Implant Procedure The implant procedure is relatively painless and can be performed by your dentist in a single visit. The surgery is minimally invasive, requires only a mild anesthesia and can be completed in less than an hour. The dentist drills between four and six small holes directly through the gum tissue into the bone underneath. Once the implant is inserted, a small driver is used to tighten the screws into place. The top of the implant consists of a ball-shaped head that snaps to the retention caps found inside the dentures. The results mean less denture movement and a more pleasurable eating and speaking experience. After Surgery Care After the surgery is over, you may experience some mild discomfort with minimal bleeding. Over the counter pain medication should offer enough relief. If not, be sure to contact your dentist immediately for a prescription pain reliever. You can eat almost immediately but should avoid sticky, hard foods for a few days. Removing your dentures is easy. Ask your dentist to show you how to work with the “O-ring” fixture that holds your dentures in place. It’s important to keep the O-ring and dentures clean and free from debris. Daily Care For the first several days after surgery, you’ll use a cotton swab and special toothbrush to keep your implants clean. Continue to practice good oral hygiene as usual, rinsing regularly with antiseptic mouthwash. Gently clean your implant fixture with toothpaste using a cotton swab. This process will also stimulate surrounding gum tissue keeping your smile healthy and fresh. If you’re in San Antonio, Texas, please contact the mini-implant specialists at Hale Dental. We always do everything in our power to give you the personalized service you deserve.
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