Do you have a child who needs dental implants? You may even be wondering if they’re eligible for such treatment. It’s essential to look into the basics of children’s oral health and understand whether or not they can get dental implants.
This article will explore what you need to know about getting dental implants for your child. So if you’re considering this option for your little one, keep reading!
Basics Of Children’s Oral Health
Taking care of your child’s oral health is integral to their overall development. It’s typical for children to begin losing their baby teeth between the ages of five and seven and have a complete set of adult teeth by age 12 or 13.
Importance of Dental Health in Children
Taking care of your child’s dental health is essential for their well-being, so don’t neglect it! Poor oral health can have a significant impact on a child’s development. Untreated cavities can result in pain and infections, which may lead to issues with eating, speaking, playing, and learning.
Furthermore, chronic medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, gum disease, diabetes, and stroke are linked to poor oral health. That said, regular dental exams can help parents keep track of their children’s teeth, gums, and jaw, making sure they’re healthy and developing correctly.
Practicing good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly is also essential in limiting infection and tooth decay in children. Moreover, taking steps to ensure your child has good dental health by regularly visiting a reliable local dental expert like Next Smile will benefit them now and into the future.
Typical Development Of Children’s Teeth
A child’s teeth typically develop in the womb. Primary tooth buds start to form at about five weeks of gestation, and by birth, the baby has a complete set of 20 primary teeth hidden beneath the gums. Most babies get their first tooth between six and ten months, though every child is different. The complete set of primary teeth should be present by three years old.
At around six or seven years old, permanent teeth begin to come through and replace the primary teeth. During this period, children may lose their baby teeth, usually between the ages of six and 12.
However, it’s important to remember that every child is different, so these are just general guidelines for typical tooth development in children.
Are Children Eligible For Dental Implants?
Factors such as age and growth must be considered before determining whether or not a child can get dental implants. Generally, dental implants aren’t recommended until the jaw has finished growing, which can happen around 15-17 years old.
That said, it’s essential to understand the following aspects when considering whether or not your child is a candidate for dental implants:
Factors Influencing Dental Implants In Children
Imminent growth, alveolar bone growth, age, length and diameter of the implant, bone quality, region of placement, and sugar consumption are all key factors that should be considered when considering dental implants for your child.
Growth-related factors, such as impending growth, can lead to implant failure, while other implant-related factors, such as sugar consumption, can lead to early implant failure. It is essential to consult a pediatric dentist who’s well-versed in these matters before finalizing your decision.
Age And Growth Considerations
In the case of dental implants, how old a person is and whether they’re still growing are crucial aspects to take into account. Usually, if one is under 18, they’re not the right fit for this procedure. But each person is different and develops at their own rate. That’s why each person should be assessed separately and differently. This is because being a certain age doesn’t always mean you’re fully grown.
Also, remember that the jaw can grow in different ways and speeds. So, checking if a young person has stopped growing before putting in a dental implant is vital.
Takeaway
You’ve learned the basics of children’s oral health and whether they can get dental implants. Children can be eligible for implants, but it depends on their age and stage of development. If your child is younger than 12, it’s most likely too soon to consider dental implants. However, suppose your child is older and has lost a permanent tooth due to injury or decay. It’d be best to set an appointment with a dentist about getting an implant.
Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth, so don’t hesitate to ask your dentist if they could suit your child.
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