About
Shatkin MDI Mini Dental Implants, headquartered at 2500 Kensington Avenue in Amherst, New York, stands as a globally recognized epicenter for innovation in implant dentistry. This distinguished practice is not merely a dental office; it is the birthplace and premier clinical practice for Mini Dental Implant (MDI) technology, pioneered by its founder, Dr. Todd Shatkin. The practice is built upon a revolutionary vision: to provide a faster, less invasive, and more accessible tooth replacement solution for patients who may not be candidates for or desire to avoid traditional dental implant surgery. The history of Shatkin MDI is inextricably linked to the evolution of the mini implant itself. Dr. Todd Shatkin, driven by a desire to help patients struggling with ill-fitting dentures, began developing and refining the concept of using small-diameter, one-piece implants in the late 1990s. His groundbreaking work transformed the field, offering a procedure that could often be completed in a single visit with minimal discomfort and immediate functionality. Today, the practice, continued by Dr. Todd Shatkin and his son Dr. Andrew Shatkin, represents decades of specialized expertise, research, and clinical refinement, treating patients from across the United States and around the world who seek the unique benefits of MDI technology.\n\nThe mission of Shatkin MDI is profoundly patient-centered: to restore smiles, confidence, and quality of life through advanced, gentle, and efficient dental implant solutions. They operate on the core principles of innovation, compassion, and clinical excellence. The practice specializes almost exclusively in mini dental implant systems, a focus that translates into unparalleled depth of experience. While many dental practices may offer mini implants as one of several options, Shatkin MDI is dedicated to mastering and advancing this specific technology. This singular specialization is what truly sets them apart. The team at Shatkin MDI are not just practitioners; they are educators and innovators who have trained thousands of dentists worldwide in MDI techniques through the Shatkin FIRST® (Fabricated Implant Restoration & Surgical Technology) program. Their expertise encompasses the full spectrum of MDI applications, from securing loose dentures (the most common use) to fixed bridges and single-tooth replacements.\n\nThe unique value proposition of Shatkin MDI is multi-faceted. First is the minimally invasive nature of the procedure. MDIs, due to their small diameter, often do not require invasive surgical flaps, bone grafting, or lengthy healing periods. This makes the treatment accessible to a broader range of patients, including those with diminished bone density who might be denied traditional implants. Second is the concept of "Teeth in a Day®" or immediate loading. Patients frequently leave the office with their dentures or bridges securely attached to their new implants, able to eat and smile with confidence almost immediately. Third is the cost-effectiveness; the streamlined procedure and materials can make implant treatment more financially attainable. The practice distinguishes itself through its legacy of innovation, holding numerous patents related to implant design and delivery. The atmosphere at the Amherst clinic is designed to be comfortable and state-of-the-art, equipped with advanced 3D cone beam CT scanning for precise planning. What ultimately sets Shatkin MDI apart is its origin story—it is the home of the innovation, led by the very inventors and foremost experts in the field, ensuring patients receive care from the most experienced hands possible in this niche, transformative dental specialty.