Dental Implants
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a type of restoration that is meant to replace a missing tooth. For children, these implants are embedded deep into the jawbone and actually work with their body. Over the course of a few months, the implant heals naturally and fuses with the surrounding bone. Once healed, a crown or a bridge can be placed over top of the new implant.
Why might Dental Implants be needed?
The main reason for needing an implant is because your child is missing a permanent tooth. When a permanent tooth is missing, your child only has two main options for replacing it. The first involves a bridge, which compromises the surrounding teeth just to fit the restoration. Implants work independently and will not cause damage to surrounding teeth.
Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
In order to be considered a candidate for dental implants, your child will need to come in for an examination. This exam includes x-rays that allow us to see the underlying bone in which the implant will be placed. Most children have enough healthy and solid bone structure, but if there is bone loss in the area where the implant is needed, we might suggest a bone graft. Most kids and teens who need an implant can safely come in and have the work done.
What happens during the Dental Implant process?
The first step is to provide anesthetic or sedation of your child’s choosing. We then make an incision through your child’s gums and place the implant deep into the jawbone. Your child will be given aftercare instructions, and they’ll need to come in routinely to have the implant checked. Over the course of a few months, the implant will naturally heal. Once this occurs, we will make another restoration, like a crown, to be placed over top of it. This helps to restore beauty and functionality to your loved one’s smile.
If you would like to consult with us regarding your child’s dental implant procedure, call us today to speak with one of our professionally trained team members.