When are Dental Implants Appropriate?

Dental implants are a great alternative treatment for replacing missing teeth. Compared to conventional restorations, they also offer the best return on investment. But when is the right time to consider them, and are there ever situations when getting a dental implant isn’t appropriate?

At What Age?

Implants are only for patients whose mouths are fully developed and matured, so most individuals will need to be at least 18 years old or so before considering this permanent restoration. It’s not that it isn’t safe, but it’s important to wait until their facial features are fully formed.

How Many Teeth Need to be Missing?

There’s no requirement about how many teeth you need to have missing before getting dental implants. Implants can be used to replace individual teeth or a full set of them. There’s no rule of thumb when it comes to the minimum or maximum amount we require our Wyndham patients to get, but you will need at least a certain number to support larger restorations like bridges or dentures.

What About Bone Health?

One thing that’s important about getting dentures is having enough bone to support them. If a tooth has been gone for too long, the bone in that area tends to shrink. Sometimes, a graft is enough to strengthen the area.

That being said, any existing gum disease (periodontitis) needs to be completely treated before starting any type of implant therapy.

It’s Too Late, I Have Dentures

It’s never too late to restore your smile with dental implants. As long as you’re healthy enough, our Wyndham dental team can help you map out a plan to restore your missing teeth or support a permanent denture with as few as four implants.

For more information, book a no-pressure implant consultation at Wyndham Dental today to get started.