Are There Any Age Restrictions for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth and closely mimic natural teeth in look, feel, and function. The titanium post serves as a substitute tooth root and firmly anchors the replacement tooth in place while also preventing bone loss. With implants, you can feel more confident eating the foods you enjoy and showing off your full smile. However, there are some age restrictions to take into consideration before undergoing dental implant surgery.

Can You Be Too Old for Dental Implants?

There is typically no upper age limit for dental implants as long as you are in good health and have sufficient bone quality and quantity. Patients in their 70s, 80s and even 90s have benefited from this treatment and enhanced their quality of life. Some patients are tired of dealing with ill-fitting dentures and are ready for a permanent solution. Our surgeons will consult with you to see if dental implants are a viable option based on your individual situation.

Can You Be Too Young for Dental Implants?

Many younger children deal with missing teeth due to traumatic injuries or congenital conditions, but dental implants are typically not an immediate option. Patients should be at least 18 years old before surgery is considered because the jawbone is still developing. The jaw does not fully mature until the late teens or early twenties.

Our surgeons conduct a variety of growth assessments, including x-rays, to determine whether the jaws of younger patients are fully developed. If implants are placed too soon, there is a greater risk of failure because the bone is still growing and changing. Other complications may develop too, such as:

• Issues with bite including malalignment
• Irregular spacing between teeth
• Bone loss around the implant
• Changes to facial aesthetics

During adolescence, the teeth shift in the mouth as baby teeth fall out, permanent teeth come in, and the jaw expands. Anchoring a replacement tooth in one place can interfere with the natural development of adjacent teeth. Waiting until their mouth is ready can lead to greater long-term success and reduce the need for additional procedures later due to complications.

There are temporary alternatives to dental implants for younger patients until their jawbone has fully matured, such as bridges or partial dentures. These devices can restore function and aesthetics and be adjusted to fit their changing oral structure. Our surgeons will continue to evaluate their bone growth to determine when they are ready for dental implant surgery.

Learn More About Dental Implants at Mosaic Oral Surgery

Our surgeons take the time to understand each patient’s individual needs and goals to create a personalized treatment plan. We work with you to determine if dental implant surgery is an effective option and schedule an optimal time for surgery. Achieve a beautiful, functional smile at any age at Mosaic Oral Surgery.