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Adult growth, aging, and the single-tooth implant
1Department of Growth and Development, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80262, USA. larry.oesterle@UCHSC.edu
Summary
Adults experience gradual changes over decades, impacting dental implants. These age-related shifts in bone and teeth may necessitate future adjustments or replacement of implant crowns.
Area of Science:
- Dental Implantology
- Geriatric Dentistry
- Craniofacial Biology
Background:
- Single-tooth implants are a common restorative solution.
- Adult craniofacial changes due to aging are increasingly recognized.
- Previous research primarily focused on pediatric implant growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of adult aging and growth on single-tooth implants.
- To highlight potential long-term complications for implant restorations.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on adult craniofacial changes.
- Analysis of adaptive dental changes over decades.
- Consideration of aging effects on soft tissues and occlusion.
Main Results:
- Adults undergo slow, continuous growth and aging, affecting dental arches and tooth alignment.
- These changes can lead to malocclusion or altered vertical dimension relative to implant crowns.
- Soft tissue aging also contributes to esthetic alterations around implants.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians should monitor and inform patients about potential long-term changes affecting dental implants.
- Maintenance, adjustments, or replacement of implant crowns may be required due to adult growth and aging.
- Understanding adult dental dynamics is crucial for successful long-term implant outcomes.