There’s an all-too-common myth floating around that dental implants are not a viable option for older adults. However, the truth of the matter is that this tooth replacement method has no upper age limit. Even if you’re over the age of 85, dental implants could still be an effective solution for the gaps in your smile! Below is a closer look at dental implants and why even older patients can still qualify for them.
What Exactly are Dental Implants, and How Do They Work?
Dental implants are small posts that can be surgically placed in your jaw in order to act as artificial tooth roots. Once they have formed a lasting bond with the bone around them, they can support a crown, bridge, or denture. Thanks to their versatility, dental implants can be used to replace any number of teeth simultaneously.
Why Even Seniors Can Get Dental Implants
When it comes to qualifying for dental implants, the state of your oral health is far more important than your age. A good candidate for the procedure will have a mouth that’s free of gum disease as well as a certain level of bone density in the jaw. As long as you meet these criteria, you can safely have dental implants placed even in your senior years.
It should be noted that if your teeth have been missing for a long time, a significant amount of bone loss may have already occurred in your jaw. However, this issue can often be corrected with a bone grafting procedure, thus making it still possible to have dental implants placed.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental implants offer all sorts of benefits that can make them a great choice for adults of any age with missing teeth. For one thing, they can keep your replacement teeth anchored in place at all times, meaning you won’t have to worry about the slipping that often occurs with traditional dentures. On top of that, since dental implants provide almost as much chewing power as natural teeth, they will allow you to eat all of your favorite foods without issue.
Furthermore, dental implants are well-known for their longevity. As long as you take good care of them, they can potentially last for the rest of your life.
Simply put, if you’re a senior with missing teeth, dental implants can be a solution worth considering. If you schedule a consultation with your dentist, they can help you figure out whether dental implants are truly right for you and help you take the first step in the process of reclaiming a complete smile.
About the Practice
At Complete Dental Care, our dentists strive to help all patients enjoy high-quality dentistry in a stress-free environment. You can count on us to always be honest and upfront about the care you need. If you are missing any number of teeth, we can examine your mouth to determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants. To schedule your first dental implant consultation at our practice in Kent, visit our website or call (253) 854-2714.