Minimum Age or Age Restriction for Dental Implants
There are a number of factors that will need to be considered to determine whether a patient is a viable candidate for dental implants, such as whether a patient has underlying health conditions that may impede their ability to heal, such as diabetes or heart conditions. Additional factors include whether they have existing periodontal or gum disease, if they have enough bone density to support a dental implant, and their level of commitment to complying with post-procedural aftercare instructions, both during the healing process and beyond.
Another important factor is the age of the patient. Dental implants are considered to be the best solution to replace missing teeth for adults, but what about dental implants for children or adolescents who have lost a tooth or multiple teeth due to a congenital condition or a traumatic injury?
In order to be a viable candidate for dental implants, it is essential for the patient’s jawbone to be fully developed. Placing dental implants before a patient has reached skeletal maturity puts them at risk of experiencing bone development interference, which in turn will put them at a greater risk of developing issues like bone loss, space between their teeth forming, or issues with their bite. This can also negatively impact the aesthetic appearance of their smile and reduce the functionality of their chewing forces.
While most patients will reach skeletal maturity by the time they are 18-20, some patients may not reach this stage until they are well into their mid-20s. As such, dental implants are not recommended for patients who are under the age of 18. There are, however, other treatment options that may be considered for younger patients dealing with the issue of missing teeth.
Options for Younger Patients
There are a number of different treatment options available for younger patients with a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. To determine which treatment option is best for your child, it will be necessary to schedule an evaluation with your periodontist. During this appointment, they will perform a thorough evaluation of your child’s oral health, determine what caused the loss of the tooth or teeth (if unknown), and take diagnostic tests to gather more information about the underlying health and structure of your child’s mouth.
With this information, your periodontist will create a treatment plan that may span several years. While we understand the urgency your child may feel in fixing their missing teeth, it is important to take a slow and cautious approach to ensure they enjoy the best results possible. During this treatment period, a partial removable denture or bridge can be fabricated, which is designed to look and function just like their natural teeth. In order to prevent additional oral health issues from developing, however, it is very important that your child practices good oral hygiene habits on a regular basis and continues to be seen by a periodontist at least every six months.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If your child is missing a tooth or teeth due to a congenital condition or traumatic injury, schedule an appointment with your periodontist today to see what treatment options may be available. It is important that your child receives the care they need and that a treatment plan is developed that is designed to both address their current needs and establish a plan that will provide them with good oral heath and a full smile as they grow older.