We don’t call Cleveland, TN, “The City with Spirit” for nothing! With its rich history and vibrant neighborhoods, it’s a place that always gives you something to smile about. However, if you’re missing one or more teeth, you might feel hesitant to share your smile. Insecurity about our teeth can change how we interact with the world around us, but restoring your confidence is possible! At the Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re proud to be part of this spirited community and are committed to helping you regain confidence. That’s why we offer dental implants in Cleveland—so you can feel as vibrant and full of life as the city we call home.
A Breakdown of Dental Implants
A dental implant is an advanced tooth replacement option that can restore your oral function and improve your smile’s look. Made from medical-grade titanium, dental implants are made to last. Titanium is known for its incredible biocompatibility, making it a safe option for various medical situations—from dental implants to hip and knee replacements.
There are two primary types of dental implants: conventional implants and narrow-diameter (or mini) implants. A traditional implant has a two-piece design that consists of an implant post and an abutment. The implant post is placed into the jawbone. The abutment is the connector that goes on top of the post to secure the false teeth. While traditional implants vary in size, they typically average 5 mm wide.
As their name suggests, mini implants are much smaller—about half the width of traditional implants. They also have a different design. Unlike conventional implants, mini implants are one single piece. The implant has a screw on the bottom and a built-in abutment on the top.
The differences in size and design between traditional and mini dental implants result in distinct procedures.
The Procedure for a Traditional Dental Implant
For a standard implant procedure, the gums are cut to expose the jawbone. Then, a hole is drilled into the bone to insert the implant post. Because of the size of the implant, progressively larger drills are used to create the necessary space. This drilling sequence ensures a proper fit and minimizes trauma to the bone tissue. Once the hole is made, the implant post is secured and the gums are sutured closed. Over the next few months, the treatment site heals.
During this healing period, something called osseointegration occurs. This is when the implant fuses with the jawbone. New tissue forms around the implant, creating a stable foundation for false teeth. After this 3-6 month healing process, the abutment and temporary false teeth are attached. The restoration may be a dental bridge, a denture, or a single dental crown. Then, after a final healing period, the custom restoration is secured.
Overall, traditional implants are effective, but there are some notable drawbacks. The treatment typically takes 6-9 months but may take longer, depending on how your body heals and whether you need a bone graft. On top of this, the procedure is invasive, requiring a more complex technique, a longer recovery, and higher treatment costs.
For patients looking for a more streamlined alternative, mini dental implants are a great option.
Mini Implants Offer a Less Invasive Procedure
The timeline for mini dental implants is significantly shorter, and the procedure is less painful because of the slim, single-piece construction. In most cases, patients can get a mini implant and temporary restoration in a single visit.
The placement procedure itself is remarkably quick. In fact, we can place a mini implant in just a few minutes. However, if you need full-mouth dental implants, the procedure can take 1-1.5 hours. After making sure you’re comfortably numb, one of our implant dentists will make a small pilot hole through your gums and into the bone. No incisions needed! Because we simply screw the implant into this pilot hole, healing from mini implant placement is exceptionally fast.
But the convenience doesn’t stop there. Because mini dental implants are a single unit, you don’t have to return to our office another time for the abutment placement.
While your gums are healing, the dental lab will work on fabricating your custom restoration. In the meantime, we’ll place a temporary prosthetic so you don’t go a day without teeth. After a week or two, you’ll visit us again so we can place your permanent restoration on your implant(s). Overall, the procedure from beginning to end can take about a month.
This less invasive procedure means less pain and a lower price tag. Because mini dental implants are smaller and simpler to place, they’re more affordable than larger, traditional implants.
If you’re still unsure whether traditional or mini dental implants are better suited for your dental situation, we’d be happy to assist you!
Get Dental Implants in Cleveland, TN—Book Your Visit Today!
If you’re ready to restore your smile and confidence, our team is here to help. As a Mini Dental Implant Center of America, you can trust that our doctors are highly experienced and have the knowledge and resources to restore your smile with the latest in mini dental implant technology.
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from enjoying all that life has to offer here in “The City with Spirit.” Take the next step toward a healthier, more vibrant smile—schedule a free consultation today for dental implants in Cleveland, TN. Let us help you smile confidently again!
