Can Implants Be Made at Any Age?
To answer this question clearly, no. Implants are not performed at any age. Or if we ask another way;
Could a Person Be Too Young for Dental Implants?
Yes.
Obviously dental implants are not suitable for babies or young children. Babies don’t have permanent teeth yet. They may not even have all of their milk teeth. But even as a child gets older, they will not be a good candidate for dental implants. This includes children aged 0-6, as well as adolescents and young people.
The main thing is that before the age of 18 people are still growing. The bone structure of the jaw is still in the process of maturation, meaning the bone structure is not stable and can continue to grow. Dental implants are intended to be long-lasting, so performing surgery too early is a recipe for treatment failure.
What Is The Earliest Age A Person Can Get Dental Implants?
The earliest age a person can get dental implants is 18. But we must not forget that even then, 18 may be too young.
Even at the age of 18, a patient may still be maturing. So the jaw can continue to grow and change. It is best for patients with missing teeth who are at least 18 years old to consult their dentist for a full assessment of their condition, rather than risk treatment failure. A personalized treatment plan can be developed according to the current condition of the patient.
Could a Person Be Too Old for Dental Implants?
Technically the answer is no.
Many people in their 60s, 70s, 80s and even 90s have had dental implants and have had excellent treatment results. Because people are more likely to lose their teeth later in life, dental implants are often an excellent and common solution for fixed bridges and dentures.
What Are the Age-Related Problems Affecting Dental Implants?
Even if you’re not technically too old for dental implants, there are a number of age-related health factors that rule out candidacy for dental implants.
An elderly patient may suffer from serious health conditions that make surgical procedures a risk to overall health. In these cases, oral surgery to place the implant may not be in the best interest of the patient.
In addition, a person who has been missing teeth for many years may have experienced significant bone loss or gum recession during this time. A person without appropriate tissue density is not a good candidate for dental implants. Granted, bone graft and gum graft surgeries can be done, but this can add several months to the overall treatment process that older patients may choose to circumvent using a conventional bridge or denture.
Learn More About Implant Dentistry
If you would like to learn more about dental implants and how they can help you smile with renewed confidence. Contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center located in İzmir Karşıyaka Dentalizm Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic today. Our dentists and team serving within İzmir Karşıyaka Dentalizm are here for you to help you make smart dental health decisions.