When considering your options to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth, you might have heard of dental implants. While dental implants are some of the best options when it comes to replacing teeth that have been lost, they may not be the best choice for your child. If your child has lost one or more of his or her teeth, you should probably consider other options besides dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth that look, feel, and function exactly like natural teeth. A dental implant is a metal “root†of the “tooth†that is implanted directly into the jawbone. After the jawbone has healed, a ceramic “tooth†is affixed to the implant. The result is a replacement tooth that is virtually identical to a natural tooth. Dental implants are the go-to replacement option for those who are seeking high quality and durability in their dental work. Still, due to the way they are affixed to the jawbone, they are not a good choice for children.
Why Dental Implants Are Not Suitable for Children
The reason that you cannot use dental implants in children is because their jawbones are still growing. Due to this, it is not possible to place the steel “root†for the rest of the “tooth†and parents should consider other options until their children's jawbones have finished growing. Of course, the exact age that a child's jawbone is fully developed will vary from person to person. However, a minimum age for a child to receive a dental implant is 15 years old for girls and 17 years old for boys. In some cases, the age may be even higher, so be sure to consult your doctor on the matter. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We're here to help!
