New Denture Technology: Instant Mini-Implants

It is estimated that one in five adults wear one denture, and one-half of adults over 55 are denture wearers. Unless anchored to implants, dentures are only about 10 percent as efficient as natural teeth. The inability to masticate food properly may negatively impact the choice of food. Hence, it has been opined that many denture wearers may be nutritionally compromised. Recent information released by the Center For Disease Control (CDC) appears to confirm this point of view.

Citing two recent studies, the CDC reports that persons who had lost a substantial number of teeth are more likely to be obese than those with more teeth (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, CDC, August 6, 2005). Additionally, those with substantial tooth loss tend to have a decreased intake of fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, biochemical levels of important nutrients were substantially lower. Therefore, it appears that tooth loss does not lead to weight loss.

Dentures anchored by implants alleviate significantly the problems encountered by denture wearers. In a recent study conducted with groups of middle aged and senior adults, implant patients were 36% more satisfied with their dentures than those without implants. Implant patients reported higher levels of comfort, ability to speak, esthetics, ease of cleaning and ease of chewing. However, implants have been a costly and time consuming procedure.

A relatively new technology, called instant mini-implants, offers a minimally invasive method to secure dentures at a fraction of the cost of traditional implants. It is done in only one appointment. Mini-implants are placed without incisions or sutures. There is also no need to replace or improve existing serviceable dentures. Much like a snap-on button mechanism, the implant fits into a metallic button hole (implant housing) processed into the underside of the denture. The denture is snapped into place and the patient can immediately have lunch or bite into an apple. Generally minimal discomfort is encountered. Initially some patients may even experience difficulty in snapping of the denture. Some patients say it's a good problem to have.

If you or your loved ones believe that mini-implants might help, do not hesitate to consult with your dentist. Mini-implants just might be the answer to better dentures, better nutrition and better health.

John C. Chao, D.D.S., M.A.G.D

Anxiety Management,

Behavior Science,

Faculty, USC School of Dentistry

What are immediate mini denture implants?Immediate Denture Implants consist of a miniature titanium implant that acts like the root of your tooth and a retaining fixture that is incorporated into the base of your denture. The head of the implant is shaped like a ball, and the retaining fixture (housing) acts like a socket that contains a rubber O-ring. The O-ring of the housing snaps over the ball when the denture is seated and holds the denture at a predetermined level of force. When seated, the denture gently rests on the gum tissue. The implant fixtures allow for micro-mobility while withstanding natural lifting forces.

How are immediate denture implants placed?Placement of the implants is accomplished quickly and easily in a process performed in our office, with local anesthesia or light sedation to help make you more comfortable. A 3D Scan is used to guide implants into precise location at the desired angulation, to ensure accuracy and safety in

avoiding vital structures.

Using a precise, controlled, minimally invasive surgical technique, Immediate Denture Implants are placed into the jawbone. The heads of the implants protrude from the gum tissue and provide a strong, solid foundation for securing your dentures. This is done the same day as a one-step procedure that involves minimally invasive surgery, no sutures, nor the typical months of healing. You can take advantage of our I.V. sedation during the procedure. We can usually adapt implants to your existing dentures.

Mini Denture Implants immediately after insertion.(NOTICE: Appearance of gum tissue immediately after implant placement. No surgical incision or sutures required; no bleeding, swelling or inflammation)

Cowards Welcome: All of our services are done with the explicit goal of making your experience as comfortable as possible. You will be amazed at how quickly your anxiety can vanish! We see this happen every day.

Cast Gold Upper Roofless Denture with Mini Implant Housings (attachments)

(outside view) (inside view)

Lower Denture with Mini Implant Attachments

Panoramic View of Implants

Before Smile Makeover After New Dentures with Mini Implants

Periapical X-Rayof upper implants

Lower Mini Implantswith Traditional Implants

(inside view) (outside view)

Upper Denture with Gold Frameworkwith Mini Implant Attachments

(outside view) (inside view)

Lower Partial Denture with Mini Implant Attachments

Sirona – Galileos

Our in-house 3D Cone Beam CT Scan that is used for implant planning and all other diagnostic procedures such as Restorative, Root Canal & Gum Treatment

Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (3D Scan) of Mini Denture Implants

3D Scan was used to guide implants into precise location at the desired angulation. A 3D Scan assures accuracy and safety in avoiding vital structures.

SAME DAYAfter Mini Implant Placement

Roof of Upper Denture Removed(in the mouth)

Roof of Upper Denture Removed

Before Roof on Upper Denture Removed After Roof on Upper Denture Removed

Cone Beam Computerized Tomography ofUpper Jaw Before Implant Placement

Cone Beam Computerized Tomography ofUpper Jaw After Placement of 4 Mini Implants

Roofless Denture

Original Denture with Roof

Original Denture with Roof RemovedRelined & Revamped

6 Mini Denture Implants PlacedMini Denture Implants immediately after insertion(NOTICE: no surgical incision or sutures required; no bleeding, swelling or inflammation)

Upper Denture Stabilized with Mini Dental ImplantsOriginal Denture made more functional & pleasing

5 Mini Denture Implants PlacedMini Denture Implants immediately after insertion(NOTICE: no surgical incision or sutures required; no bleeding, swelling or inflammation)

Original Denture with Roof RemovedRelined & Revamped

Original Denture made more functional & pleasing