Dental micro-implants have become a key tool in modern orthodontics and other areas of dentistry. Their small size, versatility, and effectiveness make them ideal for patients seeking less invasive and faster treatments. In this article, which we’ve prepared as experts in dental implants in Marbella, we’ll explore what they are, their uses, and the benefits they offer, as well as address common questions about pricing, types, and applications
What Is a Dental Micro-Implant?
A dental micro-implant is a small titanium screw temporarily inserted into the maxillary or mandibular bone for orthodontic purposes. Its main goal is to serve as an anchor to enable specific dental movements without relying on adjacent teeth.
Key Features:
- Small size (approximately 1.2 to 2 mm in diameter)
- Biocompatible material (usually titanium)
- Minimally invasive placement
- Removed once their purpose is fulfilled
Uses of Dental Micro-Implants
Orthodontics
Micro-implants are widely used to:
- Move teeth precisely without affecting others
- Correct complex malocclusions
- Avoid the use of external devices like headgear
Oral Rehabilitation and Prosthetics
In some cases, they are used to stabilize removable dentures or for trials before placing permanent dental implants.
Benefits of Dental Micro-Implants
Orthodontic micro-implants offer numerous benefits for both patients and specialists:
Precision in treatment:
At our dental clinic in Marbella, we use micro-implants because they allow direct forces to be applied to specific teeth without affecting surrounding structures.
Shorter treatment times:
By optimizing tooth movements, treatment durations can be significantly reduced.
Fast and minimally painful procedure:
Placement is done in a single appointment under local anesthesia, and post-operative discomfort is minimal.
Lower cost compared to other methods:
They are significantly more affordable than conventional implants or complex orthodontic devices.
What Types of Orthodontic Micro-Implants Exist?
Today, as experienced dentists in Marbella, we know that dental micro-implants have become an essential resource to achieve absolute anchorage in various treatments. These small titanium devices are placed temporarily in the maxillary or mandibular bone and allow controlled force application to move teeth precisely—without relying on the support of adjacent teeth.
Types by Placement Location:
- Intra-alveolar: Inserted into the alveolar bone, between the tooth roots, within the dental arch. These are most commonly used in standard orthodontic treatments.
- Extra-alveolar: Placed outside the dental arch, in areas of denser bone and further from the roots—such as the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) or the external oblique ridge of the mandible.
Types by Function:
- Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs): These are the most frequently used micro-implants in orthodontics. Their function is to provide a fixed point from which forces can be applied to move teeth efficiently.
- Provisional Prosthetic Support: These micro-implants are used in restorative dentistry to stabilize temporary prosthetics or as support before placing permanent implants.
Conclusion: Are Dental Micro-Implants Right for You?
If you’re looking for an effective, minimally invasive, and affordable solution to improve your oral health, dental micro-implants may be ideal for you. Whether for advanced orthodontics or temporary stabilization, their versatility and efficiency make them a key tool in modern dentistry.