Do you have a teenager with a missing permanent tooth? Dental implants are a proven, popular, and effective solution to replace that tooth, but there are many factors to consider before deciding if dental implants are right for your teen.
Dental Implant Considerations for Teens
There are factors to consider when placing a dental implant in a younger patient:
- Jawbone development: Throughout the teenage years, the jawbone is still growing and developing. Your OMS will evaluate the development of the patient’s jaw before starting the dental implant process.
- Orthodontic considerations: Adolescents often undergo orthodontic treatment to correct malocclusion or “bite” problems. The timing of dental implant placement and coordination with ongoing orthodontic treatment should be carefully evaluated and coordinated between the oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS), restorative dentist, and the orthodontist.
- Upkeep and maintenance: Dental implants require disciplined oral hygiene and regular maintenance. Teens should follow recommended oral care such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. If your teen is unwilling to take on this responsibility, the risk of implant failure and associated complications increases.
- Cost: Although the long-term benefits of dental implants are undeniable, it is important to evaluate the cost and investigate insurance coverage and payment options.
Dental Implant Benefits
Dental implants have various benefits for patients of all ages, including:
- Improving oral function: Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing proper chewing and speaking. Your teen can enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions.
- Conservation of jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss that will occur when teeth are missing. By preserving the bone structure, dental implants placed at an ideal age will help maintain facial structure and prevent future issues.
- Durability: Dental implants are designed as a replacement option for missing permanent teeth. With proper care and maintenance, an implant may last a lifetime and provide your teen with a permanent and reliable solution to a missing tooth.
- Restored confidence: Some teenagers may already struggle with awkward social situations. Missing teeth can contribute to reduced self-esteem and confidence in those situations. Dental implants can provide a natural-looking, permanent solution that allows teens and adults to regain a confident smile and improve their overall self-image.
Making the Right Choice
Whether your teen should have a dental implant placed should be decided in consultation with an experienced OMS. The OMS will evaluate several factors, including bone maturity, oral and overall health, and their restorative treatment plan to determine if a dental implant is the right option for your teen now or in the future.
Article Courtesy of AAOMS, https://myoms.org/
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