Minimum Age or Age Restriction for Dental Implants
Dental implants are an exceptional tooth-replacement solution for adults. Many parents are curious if implants are also a viable option for younger patients with one or more missing teeth.
When considering a patient for dental implants, age is one factor of many which is reviewed to determine if the patient is a good candidate. There are other important factors which should also be evaluated such as the patient’s oral health, the location and number of missing teeth, health of the jawbone, and general health of the patient. These things are important as they can impact the healing process and success of the implant.
Implants and Minimum Age
Prior to receiving a dental implant, patients must first have a fully developed jaw which does not typically happen until the late teen or early adult years. Dental implants which are placed prior to puberty when the jaw is still maturing can interfere with the development of the bone. Implants placed too early are also more likely to have complications or be at risk for failure. Complications associated with premature placement of an implant can include bite issues, space development between the teeth, bone loss near the implant, and aesthetic changes of the face.
Every patient develops at a different rate, but the jaw usually continues to grow until the patient is 18 to 20 years old. Some patients may be in their mid-20’s before they reach full skeletal maturity. As a result, young patients under 18 are often not considered for dental implants as their bones are still changing and developing.
The dentist or oral surgeon will usually order X-rays and perform additional growth assessments to determine if the patient’s bone development is complete. This aids in determining if the patient is a good candidate for implants.
Alternative Solutions
Fortunately, there are other solutions for patients who are not good candidates for implants. While it can be discouraging to wait for an implant, it is critical to ensure a positive outcome. The dentist may recommend that young patients use a dental bridge or a partial removable denture to replace their missing teeth. While these solutions have limitations, they are excellent treatment options which can restore the function and appearance of a missing tooth.
Once patients reach full skeletal maturity, there are great benefits to receiving dental implants as a young adult. The risk for developing complications such as peri-implantitis are greatly reduced. In addition, younger patients have strong, healthy bones which provide a secure foundation for the implant. This also aids in the bone fusing to the implant, which is critical in the long-term success of the implant.
Maximum Age for Implants
An estimated half of patients over the age of 65 are missing at least one tooth. Older patients can also be great candidates for dental implants. This includes patients who are even 80 or 90. Being an older adult does not prevent a patient from being a good candidate for implants. The patient’s overall health and oral health will be evaluated to ensure the patient can accommodate an implant. Senior patients who want to live an active lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of implants often make excellent candidates for the procedure. Some older patients are simply tired of the limitations and challenges associated with traditional dentures.
One main difference between younger and older implant patients is how they lose their teeth. It is common for young patients to lose their teeth due to an accident or trauma while older patients are often missing teeth because of disease or decay.
Contact the dental office today to schedule an appointment to discuss the use of dental implants to replace missing teeth, regardless of your age. Patients who do not have a fully developed jawbone can discuss other treatment options with the dentist.