Mini-Implants in Dentistry - A Review

Mini-implants were introduced as an alternative to standard implants for use in narrow alveolar ridges due to their smaller length and size. They are also used to provide anchorage in orthodontic treatments. Mini-implants offer simplified treatment procedures with a flat learning curve, low cost, and a possible flapless surgical procedure that can decrease post-surgical morbidity. Before being implemented into clinical practice, they were subjected to in vivo testing using animal models as is with all implant research. The biomechanical properties of mini-implants have earned them a high rate of acceptance in treatment among patients. In this review, we focus on mini-implants, extrapolation from mini-implant testing on animal models, and their latest use in dentistry.