Can Teenagers Get Dental Implants?

Tooth loss can lead to more than oral health problems – it can also hinder self-esteem. This is especially the case when a teenager has one or more gaps in their grin. If you’re the parent of a teen who is missing at least one tooth, you might be wondering whether they qualify for dental implants. Although implants are certainly the most lifelike tooth replacement available, most dentists would recommend against teenagers getting dental implants. Keep reading to learn why and alternatives for your teen to rebuild their smile.

Are Teenagers Eligible for Dental Implants?

Short answer? No. A dental implant needs a strong, healthy jawbone for support, but teenagers are still growing. If they were to receive an implant, it might end up falling out or even impacting the development of the overall jawbone. Coupled with the complexity involved in dental implant surgery, this is why dental professionals typically suggest waiting until a patient’s bones are done growing.

At What Age Can Someone Get Dental Implants?

So, if teenagers can’t get dental implants, when can someone get them? As it turns out, there is no fixed age at which a person becomes a good dental implant candidate. This is because everyone’s jawbones grow at different speeds. Some patients might be ready to receive an implant by the time they’re 17 or 18 years old, while other people will need to wait until their mid-twenties.

Keep in mind that age is far from the only factor that dentists consider when evaluating a patient’s eligibility for dental implants. The location of the missing tooth also plays a role. Because the upper and lower jaws often grow at different rates, your teen might be able to have an implant placed in one before the other. Your teen will also need to be free of any existing oral health issues, such as gum disease or cavities in their remaining teeth.

Dental Implant Alternatives for Teenagers

Is your teenager unable to get dental implants at this time? Don’t worry – there are other options that can let them enjoy a full smile until they qualify for implants. These solutions include:

• Partial denture – With a partial denture, a specific number of artificial teeth are attached to a metal framework that fits behind the natural teeth and seamlessly fills the gaps. Partials are a comfortable and affordable solution when a patient is missing several teeth along an arch.
• Dental bridge – A bridge consists of at least three crowns strung together, two of which are fitted over existing teeth. For teenagers, many dentists offer Maryland bonded bridges, which use small resin “wings” rather than crowns, so that the natural teeth don’t need to be altered as much.

Even if your teenager isn’t a candidate for dental implants, they don’t need to suffer from an incomplete smile. Ask your dentist about the options they have for rebuilding your teen’s lost pearly whites!

About the Author

At Chester County Dental Arts, Dr. Mark Simeone can perform every step of the dental implant process under one roof. He has 20+ years of experience, is an active member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and has completed extensive advanced training in tooth replacement. He’d love to help your teenager explore their options for attaining a full smile again. Get in touch with him by visiting his website or calling 610-383-1600.