What is the Best Age for Dental Implants?

dental implants​​​​​​​
  • By Courthouse Art of Dentistry
  • October 26, 2022

    • You should consider getting dental implants if you have one or several missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth, making them the best tooth-replacement option. Dental implants help secure the teeth, preventing them from shifting out of place. The titanium implants replace tooth roots, providing a strong foundation for the replacement tooth. Continue reading for more on the best age for dental implants.
     


    Reasons to Get Dental Implants 

     


    Dental implants are durable, stable, and natural-looking tooth replacement options. A good reason to choose this option is its permanence. Unlike removable dentures, you do not have to worry about removing the implants. 

    The implants do not alter the appearance and caring for them is as easy as maintaining a healthy oral routine. You can get implants if you are a healthy adult with a developed jawbone. 
     


    Good Candidates for Dental Implants
     


    Good candidates for dental implants are adults looking for a functional and natural-looking tooth replacement option. They are individuals in good overall health with one or more missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth through injury, you can get a replacement that looks like natural teeth. 

    To qualify for the procedure, you should have healthy gum and jawbone. You should be ready to commit to the implant process. Elderly individuals who have lost bone density over the years can get the procedure, thanks to modern implant technology.
     


    The Dental Implant Procedure
     


    There are several steps in a dental implant procedure. The dentist will examine the mouth and take X-rays during the initial consultation before discussing implant options. During the next appointment, the dentist will insert the implant in place of the missing tooth. 

    The jawbone and the implant will go through osseointegration, where they grow and fuse, forming a strong foundation. This will usually take several months. After the bonding, they will attach an abutment on the dental implant and a new artificial custom tooth.
     


    Benefits of Dental Implants

     

    • The replacement teeth do not need removal for cleaning

    • They look and feel like natural teeth

    • They help improve speaking and chewing

    • Dental implants help prevent facial sagging

    • Unlike dentures, they cannot fall out accidentally, causing embarrassment


     

    Best Age for Dental Implants

     


    Dental implants are a convenient tooth replacement option, but they are not for everyone. Implants are not ideal for patients under 18 years. Children and teenagers are not ideal patients for dental procedures because their jaws are underdeveloped. The best age for dental implants is after the full development of the jaw. 

    When treating younger patients, dentists take X-rays to determine the level of development of the patient's jawbone. There is no upper age limit for anyone wishing to get dental implants. Older adults are good candidates for the procedure. 

    Dental implants are effective, long-lasting, and work well for younger and older patients. They can help change the lives of elderly patients who experience an improvement in their confidence and physical health. This strong and predictable dental procedure can help improve the individual's quality of life. Regular dental checkups are vital after a dental implant procedure. 

    For more on the best age for dental implants, visit Courthouse Art of Dentistry at our Arlington, Virginia office. Call 703-783-9417 today to schedule an appointment.