At What Age Should I Consider Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a durable solution for missing or permanently damaged teeth. They're also a great alternative for removable dentures and bridges. However, many people are unsure when or why they should have dental implants. Generally, an implant dentist will only recommend them if you've lost one or more of your teeth and there's no other viable solution.
Some patients are ready for a dental implant procedure sooner than others, and age is not necessarily a factor. Dr. Darren K. Dickson of My Dentist in Plano is an expert in this matter and can inform you about the details during a consultation. Contact our clinic in Plano, TX to learn about our tooth replacement options and how we improve your smile with dental implants near me.
What are dental implants?
Implants are artificial tooth roots that resemble screws made from titanium. They're surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. Once placed, the implant can support crowns, bridges, and dentures as a natural-looking replacement for missing teeth. In fact, people with dental implants look like they never even lost a tooth in the first place! Our patients love implants because they're comfortable, convenient, and often replace temporary dentures that slip out of place and prevent you from eating your favorite foods.
Should I get dental implants near me?
Implants are long-lasting and aren't designed to be removed or replaced anytime soon, which is why it's important to be sure about your decision. A dental implant procedure requires surgery, time in recovery, and several office visits, so it's not recommended for everyone. An implant dentist can make sure you are an ideal candidate for implants in Plano, Richardson, Frisco, Dallas, McKinney, and Farmers Branch.
During your exam, Dr. Dickson will check your jawbone and see if it's strong enough to support implants. We may also take x-rays, which are useful in determining the best placement of the titanium screw implant. We then discuss the risks and benefits of dental implants, including how they can help you chew and speak more naturally than temporary dentures or bridges.
Who should get dental implants?
Typically speaking, patients who are missing one or more teeth and don't have other viable solutions should consider getting a dental implant procedure. This includes:
- Patients with advanced gum disease or tooth decay
- Patients with severe dental trauma that knocked out a tooth, including a sports injury or a car accident
- Patients with congenitally missing teeth
Keep in mind that age is not always a factor when considering this tooth replacement solution. Implants can be a good option for young patients as well as old. For example, an individual who's missing some or all of their permanent teeth could choose dental implants so they have new, healthy tooth roots. If we determine that you're not a good candidate at this time, an implant dentist will work with you to find another solution.
Replace your missing teeth
So, what age should you consider dental implants near me? The answer to this question is a complicated one since everyone’s needs and oral health are different. If you're not ready for implant surgery just yet, there's still hope! There are many tooth replacement options out there and they don’t require invasive procedures. Dr. Darren K. Dickson can review your options in detail during an appointment in Plano, TX. Call My Dentist in Plano for your most natural-looking smile possible.