Replacing Missing Teeth with Mini-Dental Implants with Seattle Dentist Mark A. Caggiano, DDS
Randy Alvarez, host of The Wellness Hour, interviews Seattle dentist Mark A. Caggiano, DDS about mini-dental implants.
Dental implants have long represented the premier method of securing dental crowns, dental bridges, and dentures in the replacement of missing teeth. If dental implants have had any downside whatsoever, it stems from the fact that many patients must undergo a bone grafting procedure before they can be considered suitable candidates for treatment. This is because traditional dental implants require a certain amount of bone density for support; however, the jawbone begins to degrade once a tooth has been lost.Fortunately, modern restorative dentistry has developed a potentially ideal solution to this issue in the form of mini dental implants, available at the Seattle practice of Dr. Mark Caggiano.If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, you may benefit from mini dental implants, even if you have been told in the past that you were not a good candidate for traditional dental implants. During your initial appointment, Dr. Caggiano will thoroughly examine your mouth to determine whether mini dental implants are suitable for your particular case and advise you accordingly.If he finds that you would be better served by traditional implants, with or without a bone grafting procedure, he will inform you of this. As a patient of Dr. Caggiano’s, you can expect that he will keep your best interests at the forefront of your dental care at all times.
What Are Mini-Dental Implants?
Like traditional dental implants, mini dental implants are posts, similar to screws, composed of a strong titanium alloy. The primary differences between traditional dental implants and mini dental implants is that the former have a diameter of 3.75mm while the latter range in diameter from 2.0-3.5mm.A traditional implant also has a hollow center to accommodate an abutment, to which the dental restoration will eventually be affixed. A mini dental implant is a single piece, comprising both the implant post and the abutment.Both traditional and mini dental implants act as artificial tooth roots once they are surgically embedded in the jaw. Because the human body does not recognize titanium as a foreign substance, the jawbone and the mini dental implant fuse together – essentially, the mini dental implant becomes part of the patient’s natural anatomy.As a result, mini dental implants provide far superior support for restorations compared to other methods, such as the dental crowns used to hold traditional fixed bridges in place or dental adhesives used to secure removable dentures.
What are the advantages of mini dental implants over traditional dental implants?
- Less invasive
- Less discomfort
- Less healing time
- Less office visits
- Less than 1/2 the cost of traditional implants
Mini dental implants are not inherently “better” than traditional dental implants; however, there are cases in which they offer unique advantages.
Can mini-dental implants be used to place one-day, immediate-load dentures?
Using advanced diagnostic imaging technology, Dr. Caggiano may be able to plan and execute the stabilization of lower-arch dentures on as few as four mini dental implants. This minimally invasive procedure involves the placement of four implants in the lower jaw without the need for flap surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Suitable candidates are able to have either their new, specially crafted dentures or, if feasible, their retrofitted existing dentures placed atop their mini implants on the day of their surgery.
Do mini-dental implants reduce the need for bone grafts?
Many patients who would require bone grafts in order to become suitable candidates for traditional dental implants may be able to receive mini dental implants without bone grafting. This is due in part to the small diameter of the mini implants and in part to Dr. Caggiano’s meticulous case planning.
Are mini-dental implants less expensive than traditional implants?
In general, treatment with mini dental implants is less expensive than treatment with traditional dental implants. This is due to several factors, including the lesser likelihood of patients having to undergo a preliminary bone grafting procedure, the fact that a separate abutment does not have to be ordered, and the fact that there are usually fewer office visits associated with mini dental implant restoration.
About Dr. Mark Caggiano
For over 25 years, cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Caggiano, DDS has provided the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle with cosmetic and restorative dentistry in a comfortable, professional environment.Originally from Los Angeles, Dr. Caggiano, worked with dentists, managed clinics, and finally took over a Beverly Hills practice in 1984. There, he perfected his skills and learned how to make dental treatment relaxed and comfortable for patients while dramatically beautifying their smiles.In 1992, Dr. Caggiano relocated his family to the Seattle area where he purchased a practice he still calls home today. He has kept with his vision of being dedicated to improving patients’ dental health while improving the appearance of their teeth.When not at the office, Dr. Caggiano enjoys spending time with his family and playing tennis.