Can A 16 Year Old Get Dental Implants?

If you have broken, worn and missing teeth causing you ongoing discomfort, contact Yorkshire Dental Suite. Our dental implant treatment restores both your smile and quality of life.

There is no upper age limit for dental implants, but what about teenagers and young people? It is possible for a 16 year old to get this treatment, but we recommend waiting until you are at least 21.

Can a 16 year old get dental implants?

There are some circumstances where a teenager may be able to have a dental implant fitted. But why isn’t this generally recommended? At this age, the jawbone can still be developing, and some teeth are continuing to erupt or change position.

Dental implants are permanently fixed into the jawbone and do not move as the jaw continues to grow. There is a risk of the implant then becoming out of alignment with the surrounding teeth, potentially affecting their appearance and function.

At what age can a young person have dental implants? This treatment is generally considered once jaw growth is complete, which is often around 18 or older. However, age alone isn’t enough to determine suitability – your dentist will need to assess your individual dental and skeletal development.

Girls typically finish jaw and facial growth before boys, so may be considered eligible at a younger age. However, biological development varies significantly from person to person, so suitability will ultimately be determined on an individual basis.

What are the risks of premature implant placement?

Placing an implant before skeletal maturity carries certain risks, as the surrounding bone and teeth continue to develop while the implant remains fixed in position. These include the following:

1. Teeth that neighbour the implant become crooked, preventing them from growing into their natural position
2. Impedes future jawbone growth and causes it to develop unevenly
3. The implant falls out
4. Need for future corrective treatment or replacement if the implant no longer sits correctly, which adds to your spending

Dental implants eligibility

Eligibility for this procedure is not solely determined by age. Most people over the age of 21 are deemed suitable, as long as you have good oral health and bone density. Issues such as gum disease will need to be treated prior to your appointment. The following may also impact your eligibility:

• Diabates
• Certain heart conditions
• Autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
• Bone disorders like osteoporosis and osteogenesis imperfecta
• You take recreational drugs
• You are currently undergoing radiotherapy
• You are unable to get finance due to credit issues

Dental implant alternatives

Can teenagers get dental implants for missing teeth, or are there alternative procedures available? Depending on the issue, you have an array of options to choose from that could give you back confidence in your smile.

We understand that a young person may not want to commit to dental implants. After all, this treatment is permanent and a long-term commitment. Your dentist will discuss with you all suitable options to help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion:

If you’re wondering can I get an implant at 16, or perhaps have a child seeking dental implants, then book a consultation with Yorkshire Dental Suite today. We will assess your eligibility and talk you through all your options.