Short-term post-operative pain and discomfort following insertion of mini-implants for retaining mandibular overdentures: a randomized controlled trial

What is it about?

This paper reports the 1st results from our clinical trial comparing mini-implants (2 or 4 per patient) to standard dental implants (2 per patient) for holding of lower complete dentures. We observed that both procedures lead to mild pain and discomfort after 1 or 6 days following implant insertion. This means there is no difference between both types of implants. However, 4 mini-implants lead to slightly higher pain at 6 days following their insertion, compared to a couple (regardless of their type).

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Why is it important?

Mini-implants demand a less complex and faster insertion technique, compared to standard dental implants. In general, their use is also less expensive. Some dentists suggest that a simpler technique would result in more comfortable few days following implant insertion. The reason for this is that mini-implants need less space in the jawbone than standard implants and normally can be placed without any cut in the gum. We tested if this different implant and technique could really result in more comfort/less pain for the toothless patient. These patents often refuse implants because they are afraid of the pain following insertion.