Kids and teens who have missing teeth causing unsightly gaps may be wondering if dental implants are a good way to achieve the beaming bright smile they want to show off to the world. While only a professional dentist can assess whether or not a patient qualifies for tooth implants, in most cases, younger people are advised to wait until their jawbones have fully developed, which may not occur until your late teens or even after. The reason for waiting has to do with how the implants work. A titanium rod is planted into the jaw itself to replace the missing tooth root, and your own natural bone then grows over and merges with the rod. After that, the new tooth – the artificial crown – is then fixed onto the rod. If you get a dental implant at too early an age, there is a serious risk of interfering with the natural development of your jawbone, which could not only throw your smile out of balance, but could also lead to oral health complications.
Dental implants are an attractive, long-term solution for missing teeth
Dental implants are a natural-looking and long-lasting tooth replacement solution that not only improves your smile but also helps to preserve your oral health. Even a single missing tooth can lead to bone loss, speech issues, oral infections, and other serious complications. For many people who have missing teeth, dental implants are the most effective treatment option. However, your dentist will consider many factors before deciding if you are a good candidate for implants, including your age.
Is there a minimum age for dental implants?
If you are younger than the age of 18, then your dentist may recommend against dental implants. The reason for this is simple: Your bones continue to develop throughout your teen years. A dental implant cannot be placed until your jaw and facial bones have fully developed. For most people, this happens by the end of their teens. Once you have reached your 18th birthday, your dentist can examine your jawbone and determine whether you are ready for a tooth implant.
What should I do if I am too young for dental implants?
If you have a missing tooth, but you are under the recommended age for receiving a dental implant, then you should still schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your oral health, especially when your teeth and bones are still developing. Your dentist will perform a full evaluation and help determine whether you should wait until you turn 18 to treat your missing tooth, or whether other options are advisable.
Is there a maximum age for dental implants?
There is no set age limit that would disqualify older adults from getting dental implants. As long as your jawbone remains healthy, you can technically receive a dental implant at any stage of your adult life. Risk factors will come into play, however, in determining if you are a good candidate for dental implants. These include whether you are a smoker or have a long-term health condition such as diabetes.
Huntington, NY dental implants
When you’re in need of professional treatment for your missing teeth, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. We are open and welcoming patients for all procedures at our practice in Huntington, NY. We are proud to offer superior dental care to all of our patients, and we work to ensure that our office is a sanitary environment for everyone by following all prescribed safety precautions. Call us today to schedule a one-on-one consultation to discuss your options for treating your missing teeth.
Additional resources:
- HealthLine, Do Guys Keep Growing Until Age 25?, https://www.healthline.com/health/do-guys-keep-growing-until-age-25
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Healthy Bones at Every Age, https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/staying-healthy/healthy-bones-at-every-age/
