Restorative dentistry is recommended for those who have suffered severe tooth loss. The most popular restorative dentistry procedure – and the most successful – is dental implants, which are permanent devices that replace missing teeth and support the function of your mouth. This procedure is often seen as a second lease on life for patients who have been missing multiple teeth for a very long time. So what is the best age for dental implants?
What Is the Best Age for Dental Implants?
But what about kids and younger patients who have dealt with severe trauma and have missing teeth? Can they get implants? If not, then what is the best age for dental implants? This procedure is often lauded for its ability to combine restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Highland by offering a new and beautiful mouth to all. Below, we will talk about the age restrictions of dental implants and help you determine the best time for you to become a candidate for this procedure.
How Dental Implants Work
Patients who have lost multiple teeth can use dental implants to restore their smile. Implants can be permanent fixtures that feel and look like real teeth. This gives a gummy smile a chance to flash some real teeth once again. Here’s how it works:
Initial Examination and Preparation for Surgery
The dentist will first perform an exam to assess the patient’s oral health. It is vital that the patient has enough teeth to support the dental implant structure. It is also important that the jawbone remains strong and intact in order to hold the dental implants in their place.
The Implant Surgery Process
Two separate surgical procedures are required for dental implants. These can be performed several months apart. The actual attachment of the implant is the first procedure. They are placed under the gumline. Sometimes, small posts can protrude from the gums. These will be capped with teeth later. Abutments are used to attach the fake teeth to an implant during the second surgery.
Implanted Tooth Attachment
Although dental implants sometimes need multiple visits to the dentist the results are often worth it. Your dentist will attach the artificial teeth and abutment to your dental implant. Still, this will allow you to eat and smile again as normal with your new teeth.
Why Can’t Kids and Teens Get Dental Implants?
We know that missing teeth can lead to a drop in self-esteem, confidence, and self-confidence in teens who have suffered some kind of injury. Accordingly, it makes sense that kids and teens would want something as drastic as dental implants to fully restore their mouth. However, growing jawbones can prevent implants from being a permanent or realistic option. Thankfully, there are other options for restorative dentistry that patients of all ages can benefit from.
Other Treatment Options
Dentures can be a great option for people who are unable to get dental implants. These removable teeth provide comfort and flexibility that are not possible in a full mouth of missing teeth.
Bridges might also be an option depending on the number of missing teeth that are present. Naturally, bridges “bridge” the gap between missing teeth and create a stable, safe area in the mouth. Still, bridges look like natural teeth and make it difficult to see that any dental work was done.
Invest in Full Dental Restoration Today
Whether or not you are a candidate for regular dentures, you are still encouraged to reach out to your East Highland Dental Arts professionals to see if you are a candidate for implant-supported dentures. There are a number of innovative restoration options that can bring your mouth back to good health and restore functionality so you can eat, smile, and breathe in peace once again. We can create a customized treatment plan that will cover your needs and provide you with everything you need for a long life of stellar dental health. Call us today to get started!