Mini Dental Implants
3M™ (MDI) is a minimally invasive, affordable dental implant procedure that can provide the denture stability you’ve always wanted – without the costs and time associated with full-size implant treatment.
What are MDI Implants?
The MDI System consists of a miniature titanium implant that acts like the root of your tooth and the 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 acts like a socket that contains a rubber O-ring. The O-ring 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 micromobility while withstanding natural lifting forces.
Smaller than full-size implants, mini dental implants are inserted to retain and stabilize your lower dentures.
3M™ MDI mini dental implants:
- Typically do not require an incision in the gums
- Cost significantly less than full-size implants
- Can often be placed with a 2-hour appointment
Common Questions
Is the MDI Mini Dental Implant placement painful?
No, MDI mini dental implants are placed with a local anesthetic. Unlike full-size implants, MDI implants are usually placed without making an incision in the gum.
Will I have pain after the MDI implant placement?
You should feel very little discomfort, if any, after placement. Generally, any discomfort you do feel will go away within 48 hours. Over the counter, pain relievers are usually adequate. If needed, your dentist can prescribe a pain medication that will control the discomfort, which you should take as directed.
How long does the procedure take?
MDI mini dental implants can be placed, and your denture fitted, in about 1 ½ to 2 hours.
What will my first day feel like?
Your dentures will feel stable and secure. Though there may be some mild discomfort, you should not experience any excessive bleeding. You may eat when you’re hungry, but avoid excessively hard or sticky foods for a period of time recommended by your dentist.
How do I take out the dentures?
Place your thumbs under each side of the lower denture rim.
Push both sides up at the same time. You can also use your tongue to assist in the removal.
Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash.
3M™ MDI Mini Dental Implants also recommends using an ACCESS™ toothbrush, which has been specifically designed to clean your implants while gently stimulating the surrounding gum tissue.
How do I put in the dentures?
You must first clean and remove any food and bacterial debris from the ball of the implants and O-ring features. This prevents inflammation of the gums by plaque, which could be forced into the O-ring fixtures and cause improper seating and problems with retaining the dentures in your mouth. Grasp the denture with both hands and lightly seat it, so that you are feeling the O-rings resting above the ball head of the implants. Press down firmly and equally on both sides, until the denture snaps into place.
What if I have trouble putting in the denture?
Always remember that the implants and the dentures must be absolutely clean. You might need to use a lighter touch to rest each implant over its corresponding socket. When you push down on both sides of the denture, make sure you do so equally. If you still have difficulty, you may need another person, like a spouse or family member, to help you get the feel for placing the denture.
What about care and maintenance?
Recommends the ACCESS™ toothbrush for brushing and cleaning the implants and O-rings. In addition, ultrasonic cleaners are ideal for ensuring that the metal housings are free from food impaction and debris.
Either mouthwash or 50-50 peroxide-water mixes are good solutions for the ultrasonic cleaner. You can also use a Waterpik® to rinse out the implants and O-rings. Do not use effervescent cleaners, as they might cause the O-rings to deteriorate.
If the dentures do not remain securely in place, contact your dentist to discuss your problems. Your dentist will perform the appropriate checkup and determine the condition and maintenance of your gums, the implants, and the O-rings.
How long will mini dental implants (MDI) last?
MDI Mini Dental Implants can last as long as full-size implants if cared for properly. Regular visits to your dentist are recommended for long-term success.
What happens if an MDI implant fails?
Your dentist may choose to place another MDI implant in another site.
What is the cost to have mini dental implants done?
Typically, the cost to have mini dental implants done will range from $2,800 to $5,000*. Compare that to full-size implants – which can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000* – and you will see that mini dental implants can provide a cost-effective option to stabilize loose dentures.
*Prices will vary by type of case and location. Based on a mandibular denture case.
Are MDI mini dental implants covered by my insurance?
As with most elective dental procedures, insurance coverage varies widely. If your insurance company does not cover dental implants, ask your Hyde Park dental implant provider about payment plan options.
For more information on mini Chicago dental implants, please call (773) 643-6006 or Click Here to schedule an appointment today.
