Tooth loss is an issue that affects millions of Americans around the country. While many people who have missing teeth are more advanced in age, tooth loss certainly doesn’t discriminate. Fortunately, there are several tooth replacement options out there to help restore smiles. Dental implants are a preferred method by dentists because of their numerous benefits, but are they a suitable option for teenagers with missing teeth? Here is everything you need to know.
How Old Do You Need to Be to Get Dental Implants?
There is no minimum age limit for getting a dental implant because everyone grows at a different rate. Some people are ready for dental implants by the age of 17 or 18 while others may need to wait until they hit the age of 21. A lot of the time, teens do not make a good candidate for dental implants simply because they are still growing and developing. If a dental implant is placed before the jawbone is fully formed, it can fall out. Since the procedure for placing dental implants is quite complex, many dentists and oral surgeons prefer to wait until the bones are fully developed and grown. This way, the bone will be fully prepared for supporting an implant.
What Other Options Are Out There?
Just because a teen isn’t quite ready for dental implants doesn’t mean that they need to walk around with obvious gaps in their smile. There are several tooth replacement options that can temporarily fill in the gaps and spaces until they have reached an age where dental implants are a suitable option:
- Partial Denture: Removable partial dentures are durable dental appliances that place artificial teeth on a gum-colored base. They snap into place issuing tiny clasps that are attached to the natural teeth. They will blend in with the teen’s natural teeth to fill in the gaps. They can be removed so the partial and surrounding teeth can be cleaned properly.
- Bonded Bridges: These take a porcelain or resin tooth to fill in the gap in a teens smile. They are held into place by the natural adjacent teeth. They don’t need to be taken out for cleaning, however they do require the surrounding teeth to be altered.
If you are a teen or parent of a teen who has missing teeth, dental implants may not be the answer right away, but fortunately there are other options to help. To find out if dental implants are the best option, schedule a consultation with a dentist. This way, a treatment plan can be customized just for you!
About the Author
Dr. Reza Jafari earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the Boston University School of Dental Medicine. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If your teen is missing teeth, he’d be happy to take a look. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Phoenix, visit his website or call (602) 404-3483.