Mini-Implants to Restore Missing Teeth in Severe Ridge Deficiency and Small Interdental Space

Purpose: This study presents the use of mini implants for fixed restoration and implant supported overdenture to enable the practitioner to overcome the anatomic obstacles of ridge width and narrow interdental space. Patients and methods: This study consisted of 9 patients who required single implants for one or two teeth replacement and 1 patient who required implant supported overdenture after mandiblectomy, iliac bone graft due to ghost cell tumor. The ages ranged from 29 to 70 years (mean 51). All patients were in good health. Clinical and radiographs were taken pretreatment, postoperatively, during rehabilitation, and at follow ups. Results: Total implant survival rate was 94.7%. One implant was removed due to its mobility as a result of bad bone quality (Type IV) and patient's carelessness (Heavy smoker). All patients except one reported complete satisfaction regarding to function, aesthetics, and phonetics. Radiographic follow up every 3months postoperatively showed success in achieving function and maintaining marginal bone level. Conclusion: Clinician can overcome both severe ridge deficiency and small interdental space with mini implant.