Dental Implants are quickly becoming the treatment of choice for patients missing one or multiple teeth. Dental implants offer more stability than dentures, as they are permanently attached to the jawbone.
This stability is compared to natural tooth roots, which help patients smile with confidence. Another important fact is that they may last a lifetime.
Dental Implants are highly recommended as they will not only improve the appearance of the smile, but also the overall quality of a patient’s life. Patients considering dental implants may have tons of questions, including the topic of age: are there age restrictions for getting dental implants?
What is the Minimum Age for Implants?
Any young adult or adult patient faced with tooth loss can get dental implants.
Dental implants are best used to replace permanent, adult teeth that will not be replaced with another.
It’s best for patients who are missing teeth and are at least 18 years old to meet with their dentist for a full assessment of their situation.
Is There an Age Limit for Dental Implants?
There is no age limit for dental implants and a person can’t be too old for them.
Many people who are more than 70 or 80 years old have gotten dental implants and had excellent results. Dental Implants are often an excellent solution for fixed bridges and dentures, as it is more likely to lose teeth later in life.
You can’t be too old for dental implants. However, there are many age-related health factors that may rule out candidacy for dental implants.
For instance, elder patients may suffer from health problems that make surgical procedures a risk to their wellness. Moreover, a person who has been missing teeth for many years may have experienced significant bone loss or gum recession. Without proper tissue density in place, a person is not a good candidate for dental implants.
When are dental implants needed?
First, the patient needs to see if dental implants are needed.
Anytime that someone has lost a permanent tooth, a dental implant can resolve missing gaps. Some common causes of tooth loss include:
- Gum disease
- Infection
- Injury
- Tooth decay
- Trauma
Whereas some teeth can be saved, there are instances when getting dental implants is medically necessary.
Good Candidates for Dental Implants
As long as the patient is over 18 years old, anyone who meets the following requirements is a good candidate for dental implants:
- Missing or loose teeth
- Good overall health
- A strong jawbone to withstand osseointegration
- No existing oral health problems
