Family Dentistry
As people age, the need for dental implants may become more apparent. Dental implants are a great option for seniors because they not only restore their teeth to a natural look and feel but also provide additional support for healthy jawbones and gums.
Implants are small posts made of titanium that are inserted into the jawbone –– usually after extraction of teeth or in cases of severe bone atrophy due to missing teeth. The implants act as anchors, allowing dentists to later attach false teeth (e.g., crowns, bridges) on top of them. It’s important to note that while dental implants can give seniors a beautiful smile, they can also help keep their jawbones healthy by stimulating new bone growth and preventing further jawbone deterioration due to missing teeth.
The benefits of dental implants extend beyond just aesthetic appeal –– since the titanium post literally fuses together with the existing bone tissue it makes eating easier and improves overall oral health. This is especially valuable for seniors as tooth loss can often make chewing food difficult and lead to malnutrition if left untreated.
Furthermore, dental implants can prevent shifting teeth which occur naturally over time without all-day support from root structures present in healthy patients’ mouths. With this type of stability and functionality restored, seniors have more confidence when it comes to eating hard food items or speaking publicly.
As we have said, older people can get dental implants. Age is not necessarily a determining factor in whether or not someone is a good candidate for dental implant treatment. Instead, the main consideration is the overall health and condition of the individual’s mouth, gums, and jawbone.
However, older individuals may face certain challenges when it comes to dental implant treatment. For example, if they have been missing teeth for a long time, their jawbone may have started to deteriorate, which could make it more difficult to place the implants. Additionally, older individuals may have other health conditions or medications that could affect their ability to heal properly after the procedure.
It’s important to talk to a dentist or oral surgeon who specializes in dental implants to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for this treatment. They will be able to assess your overall health and the condition of your mouth and jawbone to help you make an informed decision about whether or not dental implants are right for you.
Ultimately, senior citizens should talk with their dentist about the possibility of receiving dental implants if they suffer from any kind of tooth loss or decline in jawbone density due to aging. While there may be certain restrictions in place due to lifestyle choices (e.g., smoking), most seniors will qualify to receive these beneficial treatments and enjoy improved aesthetics as well as enhanced overall oral health!
If you are interested in the services a dentist may be able to provide you as a senior citizen, contact a dentist near you for a consultation immediately from Alliance Dentistry Cary.