I am 16 years old and still have my baby teeth for two lateral incisors. They look pretty weird next to the rest of my teeth. I was looking at something online and learned about dental implants. Would it work if I pulled out my baby teeth and replaced them with the dental implants? About how much would that cost? I want to do all the research before I take the idea to my parents.
Kaylee
Dear Kaylee,
Dental implant
I love that you are trying to take the initiative and do all the research before approaching your parents with this issue. It shows real maturity. While you still have your baby lateral incisors, that doesn’t necessarily mean there are not any adult teeth available. It may be that they are impacted. An orthodontist can help them erupt in their proper position with some type of braces. There are even invisible braces these days.
If there are no adult teeth waiting in the wings, then it is means they are congenitally missing. This would be the time to start looking for tooth replacement options.
Dental Implants and Teenagers
While you are obviously very mature, your dental implants aren’t a good option for you…yet.
They are the best tooth replacement option. Because of the prosthetic root, it is like having a natural tooth. Additionally, the root protects you from any bone loss. When your jaw has completed growing, that will be the time to invest in the implants. This will usually be in your 20s.
In the meantime, if you have the baby teeth extracted, that leaves you without a couple of teeth. My suggestion would be to get temporary replacements. Dental flippers are not very costly and will serve you well until you are old enough for a permanent replacement.
I’m a little concerned your dentist hasn’t already addressed this issue. It’s a big deal and important. Show your parents this post and let them know I don’t think you’re being served well by your current dentist and think you need to find a different one.
This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. William Becker.