We all know that kids in Manhattan (and anywhere for that matter) are accident-prone. And because of this, sometimes kids end up losing their permanent teeth at a young age. But, at what age does a child need to be to get dental implants? Read on as Manhattan periodontist Dr. Kissel explains.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are considered the best way to replace missing teeth. Secured by titanium rods that act as a tooth root and are covered with a natural-looking tooth crown, dental implants best restore oral function and provide Manhattan dental patients with the most natural looking smile possible.
In addition to offering you the best oral function and look, dental implants also best protect your jawbone. You see, your tooth root does more than just hold your tooth in place. It stimulates jawbone growth, too, which in turn keeps your jawbone and gums healthy. When you’re missing teeth, your jawbone shrinks, which is called bone resorption. Bone resorption leads to gum recession, which can cause your cheeks to sink in and make you look older than you really are.
How Old Do You Need to be to Get Dental Implants?
Because kids can be so accident prone, many Manhattan parents contact Dr. Kissel’s office to see whether or not their kids or teens are old enough to receive dental implants. The answer is that it depends on whether we are talking about a boy or a girl. Typically, girls can get dental implants once they are age 15, and boys can get dental implants once they are age 17.
Why is there an age difference between boys and girls? It’s all about development. You can’t get dental implants until you are done developing, and girls generally develop sooner than boys. Keep in mind though that every teenager is unique, and these age guidelines are just that – guidelines. Dr. Kissel will need to examine your teenager in his Manhattan office before he can determine whether he or she is old enough, or more appropriately, developed enough, to receive dental implants.
Short-term Alternatives to Dental Implants.
What do you do if your child or teen is missing a tooth, but is not yet ready to receive a dental implant? There are several, short-term options available to kids who fall into this category, including:
- Flippers, which are removable prosthetic teeth which can be placed in the space of missing teeth;
- Dental bonding, in which a fake tooth is bonded to a natural tooth; and
- Braces, with a fake tooth, placed on the orthodontic wire.
Learning More About Dental Implants
When it comes to getting dental implants in Manhattan, there are so many different factors to consider. While it’s great to begin your research by searching for information online, nothing can compare to having a conversation with the experienced periodontist who will be performing the procedure on your child. If you think your child is ready for a dental implant, or that he or she may need one in the future, the best thing you can do is schedule an appointment with Dr. Kissel in his Manhattan office so that you can discuss dental implants with him directly.
Call (212) 702-9088 or contact us online today to schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Kissel.
