A Rationale for Fixed Restorations Supported by Mini Dental Implants: Case Reports and Practical Case Selection Guidelines.

Many patients prefer fixed restorations to replace missing teeth. However, various factors may preclude them from receiving fixed restorations supported by conventionally sized (≥3 mm in diameter) dental implants. The introduction of mini dental implants (MDIs) (≤2.9 mm in diameter) in dentistry has created more treatment options for a variety of clinical situations. Many dentists have successfully used MDIs to support fixed restorations despite generalized concern about the strength of these narrower implants to withstand occlusal load. Because of reduced implant diameter, clinical success of mini-implant-supported fixed restorations requires controlling occlusal load through proper case selection and clinical and laboratory techniques. Furthermore, more long-term studies are needed to develop evidence-based clinical protocols for predictable outcomes. Use of MDIs in areas of deficient ridge width and/or interdental space may be a viable alternative treatment option that can reduce treatment complexity and provide the benefits of implant-supported restorations to an expanded patient population.