Reviewed by Dr. Thao Le, DDS, MD

Reading time: four minutes.

A missing tooth may feel like the end of the world for a teenager.

If the missing tooth is in the front of their mouth, it can affect their smile, self-esteem, and even how they interact with others.

Whether it’s due to an accident, congenital conditions, or extensive tooth decay, the question many parents ask is: What are their tooth replacement options–can teenagers get dental implants?

In this blog, we will explore this popular tooth replacement option and whether it’s the right choice for younger patients.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Teenagers can get dental implants, but only after their jawbone has fully developed. For most, this means waiting until around 18–25 years old. Until then, temporary solutions like partial dentures or bridges can maintain oral health and appearance.

Why Teenagers Might Have Missing Teeth

Teenagers can lose teeth for various reasons:

  • Congenital conditions: Some are born missing certain permanent teeth.
  • Injuries or accidents: Sports or other mishaps can lead to tooth loss.
  • Extensive tooth decay: Severe cavities or damage can require tooth extraction.

Regardless of the reason, a gap in a teenager’s smile can impact confidence and oral health. 

Dental Implants: A Permanent Solution for Adults

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option.

They mimic natural teeth by acting as artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth.

Implants are a long-term solution and offer several benefits:

  • Preserve bone density by preventing bone loss.
  • Protect healthy teeth by avoiding the need to grind down adjacent teeth, as with dental bridges.
  • Function and look like real teeth for a confident smile.

However, they aren’t always suitable for teenagers. Let’s discuss why.

Why Teenagers Aren’t Usually Implant Candidates

Dental implants require a stable, non-growing jawbone for long-term success. For teenagers, the jawbone is still developing.

Placing implants before the jaw has matured can cause issues like:

  • Shifting implants: Ongoing jaw growth may misalign the implant so it is no longer in the correct position.
  • Bone development issues: An implant in immature bone could interfere with natural bone growth.
  • Future surgeries: Premature placement may require additional surgery to remove and then replace the prematurely placed implant.

Most oral surgeons recommend waiting until skeletal maturity is reached, which typically occurs between the ages of 18-25. 

Each case is unique, so a detailed assessment of jaw growth and bone development is important before considering implants.

Learn more how age affects eligibility in this blog: What Is The Best Age To Get Dental Implants?

Alternatives Tooth Replacement Solutions

If implants aren’t an option yet, several alternatives can fill the gap temporarily:

  • Removable partial dentures: A cost-effective and non-invasive solution.
  • Custom-crafted dental bridges: Fixed bridges or a Maryland dental bridge can restore function and appearance and can act as a temporary solution until implants can be placed in the future.
  • Temporary tooth replacements: Solutions like dental flippers maintain aesthetics while the jaw continues to grow.

These options protect nearby teeth and preserve oral health until implants become viable.

Why Oral Surgeons Are Best Qualified for Dental Implants

When the time comes for dental implants, it’s important to choose an experienced oral surgeon to perform the surgery.

Here’s why:

  • Jaw strength assessment: They will evaluate jawbone density and ongoing growth to determine implant readiness.
  • Expertise in implant surgery: They specialize in placing implants with precision to ensure long-term success.
  • Comprehensive treatment plans: They have the experience and technology to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Trust Boulder’s Top Oral Surgeons for Your Dental Implants!

At Foley & Le Oral &  Maxillofacial Surgery, we offer detailed evaluations, innovative techniques, and a compassionate approach to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

If you or your teenager has missing teeth, schedule a consultation with one of our oral surgeons. Dr. Thao Le, DDS, MD and Dr. Benjamin Foley, DDS, are experts in the field of oral surgery and specialize in dental implants. 

To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Boulder, call (303) 444-2255 or complete the online inquiry form! Visit us at 1420 28th St, #100 Boulder, CO.

FAQs about Dental Implants for Teens

What’s the youngest age to get dental implants?

Skeletal maturity is usually reached between the ages of 18-20. However, some patients do not reach skeletal maturity until their mid 20’s. Teenagers under the age of 18 are not eligible for dental implants.

Can a 14-year-old get dentures?

There are no age restrictions for removable dentures. This means a 14-year-old can get dentures if needed. Since they are removable, they don’t rely on fully developed jawbone growth like implants do, but adjustments may be required as the jaw continues to grow. With that said, with modern preventative care dentures and full mouth tooth extraction can almost always be avoided in a young patient.

Who is not suitable for dental implants?

Dental implants may not be ideal for people with uncontrolled diabetes, severe gum disease, skeletally immature patients or heavy smokers. A lack of jawbone density can also present challenges that will require additional surgeries.

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