Minimum Age for Dental Implants: When Is the Right Time?
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Losing a tooth is a common dental issue. Some people lose their teeth in accidents, and others have damaged teeth that must be fully removed. Luckily, dental implants exist, and doctors can easily replace lost teeth to return patients’ bright smiles. However, it is important to consider the age of a patient as the minimum age for dental implants exists. When having these issues, people start searching for the best age to get dental implants. Read along to learn more about when to get your implants and why time matters.
Factors Determining the Minimum Age for Dental Implants
If you have been wondering how old you must be to get a tooth implant, the general answer is above 18. Three main factors influence the optimal age for having teeth implants, and doctors should consider them:
- Bone structure development: The jawbone grows alongside other bones in our bodies as we mature. The jaw must be fully developed before getting a tooth implant. While the minimum dental implant age is 18, the jawbone can continue developing well into your twenties. The development and density of the bone are assessed by a professional before attempting the procedure.
- Health condition: General health condition plays a role in getting dental implants. People with heart conditions or diabetes might need a special approach to ensure the complete safety of this dental procedure.
- Dental health: It is crucial to assess the state of the patient’s teeth and gums before the procedure. Good oral health will contribute to the quality and longevity of dental implants.
If you are unsure about what age can you get dental implants, make sure to discuss this with your dentist to see the full picture.
Recommended Minimum Age for Dental Implants
The general assumption is that patients under 18 are not eligible for getting dental implants. As the bone can keep growing for years after 18, it is up to the doctors to assess the development of the jaw. The average age for dental implants among younger patients is between 18 and 25.
Assessing Suitability for Younger Patients
When a younger patient needs to get a dental implant or plans on undergoing a tooth extraction to replace it afterward, it is crucial to assess their eligibility properly. To make sure that the jawbone of a patient has stopped growing, dentists might need to do an x-ray or a computerized tomography scan to see the development of this bone. Things like the patient’s medical history and oral health are also considered. After gathering all this information, dentists come up with a treatment plan that will benefit the patient.
Alternatives for Young Patients
If you are under the dental implant age limit, it is still possible to find viable solutions for teeth replacement. There are two main options for younger patients who cannot yet receive dental implants:
- Fixed bridges: In this case, healthy adjacent teeth are necessary. Patients with good oral health should be eligible for a bridge.
- Removable denture: This option works with different health conditions and provides comfortable adaptation to the gum line.
Overall health and dental health are also considered when discussing alternative solutions, although they are much more accessible than implants. In any case, even losing a tooth at a young age can be treated effectively. Dental implants can be a viable option starting at 18 years old. Your dentist will assess the possibility of making an implant and discuss all the pros and cons of such a decision.
Minimum Age for Dental Implants: The Most Common Questions
Why is there a minimum age requirement for dental implants?
There is a certain minimum age for dental implants that a dentist should assess. Normally, people under 18 do not get implants as their jaw is still developing. This development might continue in their twenties too.
What are the risks of getting dental implants at a young age?
If the jaw continues to develop even after getting an implant, it can lead to bite problems, gaps between teeth, bone loss, and general aesthetic changes. Other solutions are advised until the patient reaches maturity.
Additional Resources
Consider these resources for more information on the topic:
