mini denture implant (mdi)

Dr. Sendax and Dr. Bulard advanced the use of mini dental implants approximately 11 years ago.  They collaborated and marketed the implant through Dr. Bulards company, the IMTEC corporation.  It was offered to the dental community as the IMTEC Sendax MDI (mini denture implant).

At Tacoma Denture Clinic, the MDI is used mainly to control lower denture movement.

Due to the size and relative ease of placing the implants, the cost of the MDI is far more affordable than conventional implants.  Also, the patient benefits immediately from the MDI rather than having to wait to use them as with many conventional implants.

The Cost of the procedure is based on the number of implants used.  Two implants are the minimum and five are the maximum required to hold the lower denture in place.

 The Procedure begins with an exam and special x-rays to determine the available bone to support the implant, the implant locations, and the number and length of the implants to use.  The patient’s dentures are inspected to ensure they have reasonable bite and fit, and enough room for the housings which hold onto the implant heads.  The implant has a ball shape at the top that an o-ring in the housing (which is recessed in the denture acrylic) uses for retention.

Once the dentist has picked the size, number, and location, the patient can be appointed for the actual placement of the implants and housings.

Using local anesthetic the implants are placed, and once in position the housings are secured into the denture.  The duration of the appointment varies with the number of implants used, usually two to three hours for the entire procedure.  There is generally minimal post procedure discomfort.

To Summarize, the patient has arrived with a loose, hard to control lower denture and leaves with one that is secure in position while eating and speaking.

• Patient Resources click here to visit IMTEC website for patient resources