Dental Implants Over the Age of 60 years
Just because you are over the age of 60, doesn’t mean you should struggle with tooth loss. Even for aging adults, dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option that offer a reliable way to replace missing teeth. Not convinced that older adults qualify for dental implants? You may be surprised to hear there is no such thing as “too old” for implants. An adult can be a good candidate for dental implants at any age. Implants can enhance the appearance of the smile, restore the function of natural teeth, and improve your overall quality of life. If you are considering tooth replacement treatments, below is more information about dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This post is designed to act like the root of a natural tooth, offering stability, security, and help to maintain the shape of the mouth. After the surgical implant procedure, a healing period is required to allow time for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant is securely fused to the bone, an artificial crown can be attached to the top.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that causes bone loss. The condition is common among aging adults, especially among women after menopause. The condition is associated with increased risk of losing at least one tooth. Because of the impact osteoporosis has on bones, many people think the condition will prevent them from getting dental implants. However, older adults with osteoporosis are just as likely to be good candidates for dental implants as patients without the condition.
Dental Implants vs. Conventional Dentures
For older adults, conventional dentures are the most common approach to replacing missing teeth. Dentures may be an easy and low cost option, but they aren’t perfect for everyone. Dental implants are a bigger investment, but the benefits of implants tend to outweigh this added expense. Some of the biggest benefits of dental implants include:
- Improved Ability to Eat: Dental implants can help to fully restore the lost ability to bite and chew. Returning to eating foods that have been previously painful to eat means you may also experience added nutritional benefits.
- Improved Appearance: Dental implants improve the appearance of the smile, minimizing the embarrassment caused by missing teeth.
- Improved Quality of Life: Dental implants can improve overall quality of life. Restoring your confidence in the appearance of your smile will make you feel better about yourself. Improving chewing function will allow you to eat more foods and benefit nutritionally. With dental implants you will enjoy foods you love, smile fully, and feel healthier.
- Saving Money: Dental implants are a costly one-time investment, however, other tooth replacement options may require regular maintenance and investment over time. In the long run, dental implants may save you money.
- Ease of Care: Some tooth replacement options require a lot of maintenance. Dental implants can be cared for just like natural teeth, with routine brushing and flossing.