Reviewed by Dr. Thao Le, DDS, MD

Reading time: five minutes.

If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth, you might be wondering if dental implants are right for you—and more importantly, if it’s the right time to get them.

Dental implants are a fantastic, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth, but the timing of the procedure can be just as important as the procedure itself.

In this blog, we explain what factors are considered when reviewing candidacy for dental implants, such as age, jaw development and lifestyle habits.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

The best age for getting dental implants is when you have a fully developed jawbone, good bone density, and optimal oral health. However, age alone isn’t a barrier; with proper care and management of health conditions, everyone can successfully benefit from dental implants, regardless of age.

Factors Influencing the Best Age for Dental Implants

When you consider implants, several factors determine the best age for this life-changing procedure:

1. Jawbone development

  • Minimum age for dental implants: The minimum age for dental implants is around 18 to 21 years old. This is because your jawbone needs to be fully developed to provide a stable foundation for the implant.
  • Why does this matter? An implant placed in a developing jaw can shift as the bone grows, leading to complications. This is why it’s important to wait until skeletal maturity is achieved before considering implants.

2. Bone health and density

  • Bone density: Your bone density directly affects the success of the implant. If you have adequate bone density, you’re more likely to have a successful implant procedure.
  • Bone loss with age: As you age, you might experience bone loss, especially if you’ve been missing teeth for a while. This can complicate the implant procedure, requiring additional steps like bone grafting.

3. Oral health

  • Gum disease: Good oral health is a must before getting dental implants. If you have gum disease, it needs to be treated before the implant can be placed.
  • Oral hygiene: You should maintain excellent oral hygiene for the longevity of your dental implants. Poor oral hygiene can lead to infections and complications post-surgery.

4. Lifestyle factors

  • Smoking and alcohol use: These habits can negatively impact the healing process and the long-term success of your implants.
  • Medical conditions: Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis can affect healing and bone health, making the implant procedure more challenging.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants

Who makes a suitable candidate for dental implants? Generally, an ideal candidate should have:

  • Good overall health: This includes having well-managed medical conditions and ideally candidates should be non-smokers. 
  • Adequate bone density: A healthy jawbone to support the implant is necessary.
  • Fully developed jawbone: This means waiting until you’re at least 18–21 years old.
  • Commitment to oral hygiene: You’ll need to take care of your implants just like you would for your natural teeth.

Age-Related Considerations for Dental Implants

Young Adults (18-35 years old)

  • Jaw maturity: By this age, your jawbone has fully matured, making you an excellent candidate for implants.
  • Benefits: Implants can serve as a permanent solution, helping you maintain a natural-looking smile and preventing future bone loss.

Middle-Aged Adults (36-55 years old)

  • Bone density: At this stage, bone density is generally still good, making implant success rates high.
  • Lifestyle considerations: If you have a busy lifestyle, dental implants offer a durable and low-maintenance option for tooth replacement.

Older Adults (55+ years old)

  • Bone loss: As you age, bone loss can become a concern, especially if you’ve been missing teeth for a while. Bone grafting can address this issue, ensuring a solid foundation for implants. For more information on who needs a bone graft, read our blog: When Are Bone Grafts Necessary for Dental Implants?
  • Health conditions: Chronic health conditions common in older adults, such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular issues, can impact the healing process and success of dental implants.
💡 What happens to dental implants as you age?
Nothing happens to your implants as you age if you maintain good oral hygiene and manage any underlying health conditions. With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime, continuing to support your jawbone and oral function effectively.

Alternatives to Dental Implants

Dental implants are an excellent option for many, but they might not be suitable for everyone. Here are some alternatives:

  1. Removable dentures: A more affordable, though less permanent, option.
  2. Implant-supported bridges: These use fewer implants to support a bridge, making them a good option if you’re missing several teeth in a row.
  3. Partial dentures: These are removable and are often used when multiple teeth need to be replaced.

The Implant Procedure and Success Across Age Groups

The dental implant procedure follows these steps:

  1. Consultation: Your dentist will assess your bone health, jaw development, and overall oral health.
  2. Bone grafting (if needed): If your bone density is low, a bone graft may be performed.
  3. Implant placement: A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone, serving as an artificial tooth root.
  4. Healing process: Over several months, your bone will grow around the implant, securing it in place.
  5. Abutment and crown placement: Once healed, an abutment is placed on the implant, and a crown is attached, giving you a natural-looking tooth.

Success Rates

  • Younger patients enjoy higher success rates due to better bone health and faster healing.
  • Older patients may require additional procedures like bone grafting but can still achieve successful outcomes.

Maintenance and Care for Dental Implants

To ensure the longevity of your implants, follow these tips:

  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush and floss daily to prevent infections.
  • Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups.
  • Avoid harmful habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can compromise your implant.

The Best Dental Implants in Boulder, CO

What’s the best age to get dental implants? It all boils down to your unique situation—whether you’re 18 or 80, the right time is when you have a fully developed jaw, good bone density, and excellent oral health. And remember, dental implants aren’t just about filling a gap—they’re about maintaining your smile, your health, and your quality of life.

At Foley & Le Oral Surgery, our experienced oral surgeons specialize in dental implant placement and a wide range of other dental services. If you are searching for ‘dental implants in Boulder, CO’ or an ‘oral surgeon near me’ we can help! Call (303) 444-2255 to schedule an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.

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