My dentist said I had two options for some implants on my front teeth. One is to get the traditional implants or I could get the mini-implants, which he said do the same thing. Why would I get the traditional one if the more affordable option does exactly the same thing?
Griffith L.
Dear Griffith,
If there really were no difference between the two procedures, then I’d say of course get the more affordable dental implants. However, they’re not the same. Either you were confused by what your dentist tried to explain or he’s confused as to how they work. Hopefully, it’s the former. If your dentist is this confused about their functions, that is dangerous to you as a patient and I’d highly recommend you find a new dentist, at least for tooth replacement procedures.
Traditional implants can retain a crown securely. Mini-implants cannot. They’re mostly just used to stabilize a denture. They’re not strong enough to sustain a crown themselves. When you’re talking about your front teeth, you could get the traditional implants or you could get a dental bridge. Be aware that with biting and chewing force in that position, a bridge will eventually have to be replaced. The implants will likely last your lifetime.
You might be interested in looking at our page on dental implants versus a dental bridge.
I would check to make sure your dentist has significant, positive experience placing dental implants. Ask him how many implant cases he’s performed and how many of those were successful.
Another thing to consider is his cosmetic skill. Your front teeth are very visible. Ask to see some of his before and after images of cosmetic cases he’s done to be certain you’ll like the results.
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