Mini implant
Your advantages of mini implants:
they extend the treatment options and in some cases even shorten the treatment time
they avoid wearing extraoral devices such as headgear
In the case of individual teeth that are not in place, the gap is closed without having to extract teeth to compensate for this
very targeted and fast tooth movements are made possible, which would not be possible with traditional treatment
For targeted tooth movements
Mini implants (also known as mini screws or mini anchor screws) are used in orthodontics to move teeth in a specific direction. They serve as a stable attachment point to move the teeth in a targeted manner without exerting pressure on the neighboring teeth. Only the teeth that need to be moved are moved.
However, these mini implants must be clearly distinguished from dental implants for crowns and bridges at the dentist.
From insertion to removal:
The mini screws are inserted painlessly in a minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia. As soon as this is done, the actual orthodontic treatment to correct the teeth begins. Once this is complete, the mini implants are removed again.
Frequently asked questions about mini implants in orthodontics
What are mini orthodontic implants anyway?
Mini implants – also known as mini screws or mini anchor screws – are small screws that are temporarily anchored in the jawbone. They serve as stable attachment points to which forces for tooth movement can be applied in a targeted manner. In contrast to normal dental implants for crowns or bridges, they are only in the mouth for the duration of orthodontic treatment and are then removed again.
What are mini implants used for with fixed braces?
Mini-implants are used when certain teeth need to be moved in a targeted manner without the other teeth having to serve as a counterbalance. For example, they can be used to close gaps where teeth are not in place, move individual molars or perform complex tooth movements that would hardly be possible with traditional appliances. Extraoral appliances such as headgear can often be avoided and treatment times shortened.
What is the procedure for inserting a mini implant?
The screw is inserted in a short, minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia so that the area is pain-free. The small screw is gently inserted into the jawbone – this procedure usually only takes a few minutes. As a rule, no longer healing time is required and the mini implants can be used quickly for orthodontic force transmission. Once the treatment is complete, they are easily removed and the small gap in the bone heals by itself.
Is the insertion of a mini implant painful?
Thanks to the local anesthetic, most patients hardly feel any pain during insertion, rather a feeling of pressure or tension. In the first few days after the procedure, the region can be somewhat sensitive, which can usually be controlled well with mild painkillers. After a short time, the mini implants are usually barely noticeable in everyday life and do not interfere with speaking or eating.
What advantages do mini implants offer over conventional appliances?
Mini implants expand the orthodontic options and allow very targeted, controlled tooth movements. In many cases, this allows teeth to be retained that would otherwise have to be extracted to create space, and it is often possible to dispense with conspicuous external braces (headgear). Treatment times are often shorter because forces are applied more efficiently and undesirable counter-movements of the remaining teeth are avoided.
Are there any risks or side effects with mini implants?
As with any procedure in the oral cavity, slight pain, swelling or feelings of pressure may occur temporarily after insertion. In rare cases, a mini implant can become loose or not be sufficiently absorbed by the bone and must then be replaced or repositioned elsewhere. Good oral hygiene around the implant is important to avoid inflammation. We will discuss all risks with you in advance and carefully select the size and position of the mini implants.
Are the costs of mini-implants covered by health insurance?
The assumption of costs for mini-implants depends on the individual situation and your insurance. Statutory health insurance companies often classify them as an additional measure that is not always fully covered; it is therefore often a private or additional benefit. Depending on the tariff, private health insurance and supplementary insurance may reimburse a proportion of the costs. Before treatment begins, we will prepare a detailed cost estimate, which you can submit to your insurance company to clarify reimbursement.
