When you look at a calm stretch of ocean, it’s easy to forget that life below the surface is what keeps the ecosystem thriving. Seagrass, for instance, anchors itself in the seabed while fueling an entire web of life above it. Manatees and sea turtles graze directly on its blades, while countless small organisms rely on its presence for food and shelter. Though unseen, these hidden networks sustain the balance of marine life. Our bodies work in a similar way. The foundation for strong, healthy teeth doesn’t begin with the crown we see; it starts below the gumline, where roots and bone interact. But what happens when that support system is gone? The effects can be more serious than most people realize. At Designing Smiles Dentistry near Sebastian, we use dental implants to restore what’s missing and help rebuild the foundation your smile depends on.
Dental Implants in Sebastian, FL
Dental implants are small titanium posts that we insert into the jawbone. Once positioned, the implant begins to integrate with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This process forms a stable bond between the implant and the jaw, allowing the implant to function much like a natural tooth root. As the bone fuses with the implant, it not only creates a secure foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture, but it also helps maintain the health and structure of the surrounding bone.
This connection is important because the jawbone depends on regular stimulation to stay strong. Normally, the force from chewing and biting travels through tooth roots and signals the body to preserve bone tissue. When a tooth is lost, that signal disappears, and the bone in that area starts to break down. This process, known as resorption, causes the jaw to shrink and weaken over time. A dental implant helps interrupt that cycle by restoring stimulation to the bone and encouraging long-term stability.
Mini Implants: Key Benefits You Should Know
When it comes to dental implants, most people picture the traditional kind. These implants are about 5 millimeters in diameter and are placed in multiple stages. First, the implant post is inserted into the jawbone. After healing, an abutment is added, which acts as a connector between the implant and the final restoration. This process is effective, but it can take several months to complete. It may also require more invasive surgery, especially because of the larger implant size. The wider diameter often requires more bone, which can lead to additional procedures if there is not enough bone to support the implant.
Mini dental implants offer a very different experience. These implants are typically under 3 millimeters in diameter, almost half the size of a traditional implant. Their smaller size allows for a much less invasive placement process. In many cases, we can place the implant during a single visit, resulting in minimal discomfort. For patients, this often means less pain and a shorter recovery time.
Another important difference is their design. Mini dental implants are one-piece implants. Traditional implants require a separate abutment that connects the post to the restoration. In contrast, mini implants combine these parts into a single unit. This design simplifies the procedure and lowers the long-term risk of infection. Because there is no small gap between parts, there is less opportunity for bacteria to collect and cause issues such as peri-implantitis, an infection that can threaten the health of the surrounding tissue and bone.
What does this mean for patients? It means fewer appointments and avoiding complicated surgeries. It also means having access to a more affordable solution for missing teeth. Most importantly, it means feeling more confident about your oral health in the long run.
Explore Your Options With Dental Implants in Sebastian, FL
Strong smiles start with a strong foundation. If you’re missing one tooth or seeking a more stable alternative to traditional dentures, mini dental implants can provide a lasting solution with less complexity and greater comfort. At Designing Smiles Dentistry, Dr. Apel provides personalized care that supports your health today and preserves your smile for years to come. Contact us today to book a free consultation!
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