Mini implants are not a universal solution.
According to the position statement of the International Team for Implantology (ITI), implants with very narrow diameters do not replace standard implants in all clinical situations; however, they can be a valid alternative when indicated, especially when the goal is to avoid bone augmentation.
We are focusing precisely on this narrow but real range of clinical indications:
Implant Survival, Implant Success, and Marginal Bone Level Under Functional Loading Diameter Category 1.
The mean functional follow-up of the investigated dental implants < 3.0 mm (mini- implants) ranged between 12 and 96 months. Most of the implants used were one-piece implants and had a diameter of 1.8, 2.4, or 2.5 mm. The only defined indications were the edentulous arch and the nonloaded frontal region. In five out of seven studies in which the type of flap was described, an open procedure was performed. In most of the studies, the implants were loaded immediately with an overden- ture. Survival rates of the dental implants < 3.0 mm were described to be between 90.9% and 100%. Only one study provided an implant success rate (92.9%). In radiological assessments, 24 months after dental implant insertion, the average peri-implant bone loss was 0.98 ± 0.36 mm.
A mini implant (Small Diameter Implant, SDI) is a small-diameter, single-piece implant that is primarily used to stabilize removable dentures or in cases of limited bone availability.
The main difference between mini implants and traditional implants is their diameter (usually 1.8–3.0 mm) and the fact that they can often be inserted in a single procedure without sutures.
The best results can be achieved with bone quality D1–D3.
In the case of loose bone structure (D4), primary stability is more difficult to achieve, therefore increased caution or an alternative solution is recommended.
According to the literature (Christensen, 2023; Flanagan, 2019), the 5-year survival rate of mini implants ranges from 90 to 95% with appropriate indications and loading.
Success is most influenced by bone quality, primary stability, and the direction of loading.
Yes, in certain cases.
The advantage of mini implants is the possibility of immediate or early loading due to their primary stability, especially in the case of prosthesis stabilization.
However, it is important that the insertion torque reaches a value of 35–45 Ncm.
There are no absolute age restrictions, but the following may constitute relative contraindications:
In most cases, insertion is performed using a flapless technique in a single step.
The procedure is minimally invasive, does not require sutures, and can usually be performed under local anesthesia.
In most cases, the patient can wear the stabilized dental prosthesis on the same day.
Regular check-ups and professional cleaning are essential.
It is recommended to have a radiological check-up every six months and to replace the retention elements (O-rings, housings) if necessary.
With good oral hygiene, mini implants can remain stable in the long term.
Yes. Numerous studies (e.g., Christensen, 2023; Flanagan, 2019; Shatkin et al., 2014) confirm the clinical success of mini implants when used for the appropriate indications.
The literature unanimously concludes that mini implants are a safe and effective alternative to traditional systems, especially in the field of prosthesis stabilization.
