Mini-Implants to Reconstruct Missing Teeth in Severe Ridge Deficiency and Small Interdental Space: A 5-Year Case Series

Abstract

Two of the major obstacles for dental implant placement to replace missing teeth are the lack of adequate bone width and interdental space. Overcoming these limitations requires bone augmentation procedures that transform the deficient ridge into a ridge that is capable of receiving conventional tooth-form implants. In the case of inadequate interdental space, orthodontic tooth movement is advocated before implantation. Using narrow-diameter mini-implants allows the clinician to overcome both of these obstacles without the need for additional grafting procedures or orthodontic tooth movement. The mini-implants are immediately loaded and restored so as to enable the patient to have satisfactory mastication and aesthetic appearance. A 5-year follow up of 32 implants demonstrates the benefit of this treatment modality.