Springfield, MO Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Davis Offers New Mini Dental Implants

April 26, 2009- SPRINGFIELD, MO – Springfield Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Marc Barnett has begun offering mini dental implants at Barnett-Davis Dental Group.

Dr. Barnett is certified to surgically place and restore mini implants in his Springfield dental care facility.

"One of the huge advantages of mini implants is that our patients are capable of using the implant and subsequent restoration immediately," Barnett said. "That means that we can surgically place the implants and our patients can enjoy the benefits of stabilizing their removable dentures, partials and even single tooth cemented restorations, such as crowns, as soon as they have their implant placed."

In comparison to mini implants, traditional implants must be left for four to six months to allow integration into the jawbone before they can have chewing pressure placed upon them. After this healing phase, the patient can have the denture, partial or crown secured to the implant.

"Unlike these more traditional implants, the mini implants can withstand biting and chewing forces immediately," Barnett said, adding that these implants don't require patient sedation or stitches to place them.

Barnett initially became interested in mini implants for denture stabilization purposes.

"I see so many denture patients who have become frustrated with their old dentures because they are unable to keep them held securely in place," he said. "This not only affects their ability to eat and digest food, but this also affects their speech and confidence in social situations. Mini implants have given so many of our patients the ability to smile, talk and eat the foods they want again."

The mechanism that allows mini implants to hold a removable denture or partial in place resembles a small "ball and hitch" assembly, Barnett explained. The mini implant emerges from the gum area and looks like a miniature rubber ball. This little ball then is custom-fitted to be retained to the inside area of the patient's denture or partial so that the denture snaps into place over the little ball.

Mini implants cannot be placed in every patient, he said. Some patients who are missing teeth must still be restored using traditional implant systems. The best way to find out if a person is a candidate for mini implants is to schedule an appointment for a mini implant consultation. During this appointment, Barnett examines the patient and discusses all treatment options.

Learn More
If you would like to schedule a consultation with one of Springfield MO dentists at the Barnett-Davis Dental Group, please visit their Web site: www.barnettdavisdental.com or call: (417) 581-3600.

About Barnett-Davis Dental Group
Drs. Marc and Kelly Barnett have practiced dentistry in the Ozarks since 1984. Kelly graduated Phi Beta Kappa from The University of Kansas and Marc graduated Magna Cum Laude from William Jewell College.

Originally from Conway, Missouri, Dr. Tracy Davis moved to the Springfield area in 2004 to be closer to family. She graduated "with dinstinction" from the University of Missouri School of Dentistry in Kansas City. Tracy has received national recognition as a dental researcher.

Tracy loves working with children and knows how to make them feel comfortable at the dentist's office.

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