Dental implants are an excellent option to replace missing teeth, but they are not appropriate for treating children. The jawbone must have achieved its complete adult growth before implants can be considered a viable option for replacement.
Children often lose teeth as a result of a fall or accident. If the teeth lost are baby teeth, it might not be necessary to replace them. However, older children and adolescents can lose their permanent teeth. When this occurs, replacement is generally preferred for many reasons. Your child will probably be self-conscious about a missing permanent tooth, so replacement will help reduce this. However, replacing a missing permanent tooth is important for other reasons as well.
If a missing tooth is not replaced, it can affect the growth and alignment of the other teeth. This can lead to long-term problems, including an eventual need for extensive orthodontic treatment. Though implants might not be a possibility, depending upon your child’s age, replacement of some kind is vital to protect the remaining teeth.
If your child is at least fifteen years old, consult with an implant dentist to determine if a dental implant might be a viable choice. If your child is not a candidate, there are other options available for tooth replacement. In some cases, if a tooth is knocked out and is treated immediately, your dentist can set it back in place with successful results.
Other options for tooth replacement include a removable partial denture or crown and bridge replacements. A partial denture can be constructed to replace a single tooth, which will restore your child’s smile, reduce self-consciousness, and help keep the remaining teeth in the correct alignment. A crown and bridge is a permanent replacement, and might not be the best option if you wish to have an implant in the future. Consult with an implant dentist to ensure you make the best choice for your child.
For more information or to schedule a professional consultation, contact our skilled team at The Center For Oral Surgery of Las Vegas.