At Derby CIty Dental Specialists in Kentucky, our practice is focused on using techniques and state-of-the-art technology to provide customized treatment options that give our patients improved dental health and a fantastic smile. If you’ve been considering dental implants for your loose or missing teeth, our amazing team can help!
When Dr. Clagett meets with potential dental implants patients, he’s often faced with the question of age. More precisely, “Are there any age restrictions for dental implants?” Because Dr. Clagett believes in educating each and every patient on their procedure to ensure they are fully prepared before they make a decision, we want to answer those questions today.
The 411 on Dental Implants
Dental implants are the number one tooth replacement system on the market today. The dental implants themselves are placed directly into the jawbone which stimulates the bone and maintains its health and structure. Additionally, they look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Once Dr. Clagett places the implant, he then attaches a connector (also called an abutment) on top of the implant. This abutment is what supports your new crowns. Each crown is made by a specialist to fit your mouth and match your surrounding teeth.
Am I Too Young For Dental Implants?
Technically, there is no minimum age to receive dental implants. However, Dr. Clagett will only place dental implants for patients who have a fully developed jawbone. This is done in order to protect them from future periodontal complications and implant failure. For most Kentucky residents, jawbone maturity occurs between the ages of 17 and 20.
If implants are placed too early and the jawbone continues to grow and expand, the dental implants will not shift with the jawbone as natural teeth do. This could then lead to orthodontic problems like bite misalignment and undesirable aesthetic changes to their smile.
Am I Too Old For Dental Implants?
When it comes to an upper age restriction, there isn’t one. Many men and women in Kentucky in their late 60s have dental implants and even people into their 80s and 90s. Before making a decision on whether or not a patient is a surgical candidate, Dr. Clagett will first evaluate their entire health history. Dental implants surgery is incredibly safe, and as long as Dr. Clagett deems you healthy, you can be 99 and receive dental implants!
Is My Jawbone Strong Enough For Dental Implants?
Surgical candidacy is determined on a patient-to-patient basis. There’s no way for you to know whether or not your jawbone is strong enough or mature enough to receive dental implants. Only by visiting Kentucky’s Derby City Dental Specialists for a complete evaluation will Dr. Clagett be able to make a determination.
No matter your age, Dr. Clagett will take X-rays to determine the health of the jawbone. For young patients wanting or needing implants, this is also how he will determine the maturity of the bone.
Our Team Can Help!
When you visit Kentucky’s Derby City Dental Specialists, we know you feel welcomed and comfortable. Each member of our team works to ensure you understand your entire health situation and which options are optimal for your specific needs. Dr. Clagett will patiently answer all of your questions and make sure that you are comfortable with the dental implants procedure before you begin treatment.
If you’re ready to learn more and find out if you’re a surgical candidate for dental implants, call Dr. Clagett’s office today!
