I Am 17 Years Old And I’m Wondering If I’m A Suitable Candidate For Dental Implants?
Q.
Hello Dr Hughes,
Hello Dr Hughes,
I am 17 years old and have two congenitally missing lateral incisors. I underwent orthodontic treatment and received a bridge on the NHS. I was extremely unhappy with this bridge as it was very conspicuous and unnatural looking. I then switched dentists where I received a much more natural looking bridge but I am still not entirely happy with it. I was wondering whether I am a suitable candidate for dental implants. My current dentist suggests that from my X-rays that I am not as the available gum space is too small, from what I can remember it measured roughly 3mm on the left and 3.5mm on the right. It would be great to get your advice on this. Thank you!
A.
The average width of an adult lateral incisor is 6-7mm so the spaces you are quoting sound too small. The angulation and width between the roots of the teeth either side also needs to be assessed. The amount of bone available is also very important as it has been reducing in volume ever since your orthodontics was concluded. My advice would be to see an implant expert and specialist orthodontist who has experience in dealing with these types of cases as soon as possible. Kind regards, Mark.
The average width of an adult lateral incisor is 6-7mm so the spaces you are quoting sound too small. The angulation and width between the roots of the teeth either side also needs to be assessed. The amount of bone available is also very important as it has been reducing in volume ever since your orthodontics was concluded. My advice would be to see an implant expert and specialist orthodontist who has experience in dealing with these types of cases as soon as possible. Kind regards, Mark.
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