Is There a Right Age for Implants?

Dental implants are a great option for restoring a smile. They look like your original teeth, function similarly, and are a sturdy, long-lasting option. But did you know that when it comes to an implant, age and health can be major factors. In fact, if you get an implant in the wrong circumstances, it could actually cause problems..

For example, what would you do if your child lost a tooth? Obviously, if the tooth is a primary, or baby, tooth, you can just wait for an adult tooth to emerge—though we recommend visiting a dentist in the meantime. But if your child loses a permanent tooth, an implant many not be an option. This is because their jawbones must be fully developed before an implant can be placed. This means that boys can usually have an implant when they are seventeen and that girls can at age fifteen. Fortunately, your dentist can provide options for replacing their missing teeth until their jawbone finishes developing. Also, even if your child doesn’t mind missing a tooth, it is important to take them to a dentist to prevent further complications.

Conversely, there is no age limit for getting dentures. Instead, a dentist will need to examine the health of your gums and to ensure that you have sufficient jaw support. In fact, any adult patient in good health—both overall and oral—can be a good candidate for a dental implant.

If you are interested in learning more, we invite you to contact us soon. We are excited to hear from you.