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When a child loses a tooth due to a fall or other trauma, many parents turn to their dentists to determine the best course of action. While dental implants are usually the answer for adults in this situation, they may not always be the best choice for kids. To better understand the complexities of why dental implants may not work for children and to learn about other options, continue reading the guide below.

Everything You Need to Know About Children & Dental Implants

Primary vs. Permanent Tooth Avulsion

As a rule of thumb, a tooth avulsion (the technical term for knocking out a tooth) is not considered a dental emergency unless it involves a permanent tooth. With primary teeth, dentists will typically allow the gap to remain, as an adult tooth will eventually grow in its place. With permanent ones, most dentists recommend saving the knocked-out tooth so they can try to put it back. However, if this doesn’t work, they will generally wait until the child is older to place an implant.

Growth Patterns for Teeth

Between early childhood and their teens, children lose most of their primary teeth and grow larger, permanent ones. During this time, the jaw also changes in shape and size. Because it is difficult to know the exact size of incoming teeth and the direction they may grow in, dentists prefer to wait until the jaw is fully formed before placing dental implants.

Ideal Time for Implants

dental implantThe best time for a dental implant is once the jaw is fully formed. In females, this is usually around age 15, while in males, this can be as late as 17. Because these ages are estimates and each child is unique, it is important to have frequent conversations about implant readiness with your child’s dentist.

Other Options

In addition to the physical pain of losing a tooth, a missing tooth can also become a source of insecurity for children, especially during the adolescent years. To help remedy this issue until implants are an option, your child’s dentist may offer the use of removable, artificial teeth (known as flippers), dental bonding, or braces to help close the gap. 

 

If your child has recently lost a tooth and you are wondering if dental implants are an option, contact the experts at JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS. This team of dentists specializes in all types of general and cosmetic dentistry, including implants, crowns, bridges, and veneers. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call (513) 528-1223 to schedule an appointment today.

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