Dental Implants Over the Age of 60 years
Many adults over the age of 60 experience tooth loss. However common it may be, it doesn’t mean you should struggle with it. Dental implants are one of the most popular dental treatments for the replacement of missing teeth. You may be surprised that older adults qualify for dental implants. The truth is an adult can be a good candidate for dental implants at any age. Dental implants are so popular because the treatment improves the appearance of the smile, restores the function of the teeth and mouth, and improves overall quality of life. If you are over the age of 60 and are considering dental implant treatments, below is more information for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are metal or ceramic posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implants are designed to act like the stable and secure root of a natural tooth. It is important to know that that the implant process can take several months. This is because after the implant surgery, a several month healing period is needed to allow time for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant is fused to the bone, the artificial crown can be attached to the top. When compared to alternative tooth replacement options, dental implants provide unparalleled durability and stability.
Does it Matter if I Have Osteoporosis?
Common among aging adults, osteoporosis is a medical condition that causes progressive bone loss. Osteoporosis is also associated with increased risk of tooth loss. Due to the impact osteoporosis has on bones, people think having the condition will prevent them from qualifying for dental implants. Fortunately, older adults with osteoporosis are just as qualified for dental implant treatment as older adults without the condition.
But Why Are Implants Better Than Conventional Dentures?
As you may know, conventional dentures are the most common tooth replacement choice for older adults. This is because conventional dentures offer an easy and low cost option for tooth replacement. But conventional dentures aren’t right for everyone. Dental implants offer long-term benefits that outweigh the benefits of dentures. Benefits of dental implants include:
- Improved Ability to Eat: Dental implants will fully restore the ability to chew, making every day eating easier. With dentures, chewing will not be as easy, and therefore you may not be able to eat all foods. With implants you will be able to eat foods that have been previously painful to eat.
- Improved Appearance: Replacing missing teeth with dental implants can improve the appearance of the smile as implants offer the appearance of natural teeth.
- Improved Quality of Life: Dental implants will restore speaking and chewing function, and expand your ability to eat all nutritional foods, improving your overall quality of life.
- Saving Money: Dentures may be more affordable initially, compared to dental implants that are a larger one-time investment. However, many tooth replacement options, such as dentures, require regular maintenance and investment over time. Therefore, implants may save money in the long-term.
- Ease of Care: Dentures require a great deal of maintenance while dental implants require the same care as natural teeth, including brushing and flossing.