Ageing can cause our teeth to wear down and become less functional, impacting our ability to eat the foods we love and making it difficult to speak clearly. Dental implants can help older adults keep their natural teeth while improving their oral health.
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implants are fixed, they can support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants are an excellent option for older adults who want to keep their natural teeth but may be experiencing issues with them.
There are many advantages of dental implants for older adults, including:
Improved Comfort and Convenience
Traditional dentures Traditional dentures have been a popular solution for tooth loss or damaged teeth, especially in older people. However, the downside of this treatment is that dentures can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. In addition, they can slip or move around in the mouth, making it difficult to eat and speak. Dental implants can help improve dentures’ comfort by providing a stable base. This means they will not slip or move around in the mouth, making eating and speaking easier.
Improved oral health
Another great benefit of dental implants for older adults is that they can help to improve overall oral health. This is because dental implants fuse to the jawbone, which helps to stimulate and preserve it. This can, in turn, help to prevent the deterioration of the jawbone, which can lead to further tooth loss. In addition, dental implants do not require the removal of any healthy tooth structure, as is the case with dental bridges. This means that more of the natural teeth are preserved, which helps to improve oral health.
Better eating
With dental implants, you can comfortably enjoy foods that might have caused pain or discomfort before. This is because the implants provide a strong and stable base for your teeth, making it easier to bite and chew food. With regular dentures, there is a risk that they will slip or move when you are eating, which can cause pain or discomfort. Dental implants can help you to enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about this.
Improved self-esteem and confidence
Dental implants can also help to improve your self-esteem and confidence. This is because they look and function just like natural teeth. This means you can smile, laugh, and speak confidently, knowing your teeth look great. In addition, dental implants can help to restore your facial structure and prevent the sunken-in look that can occur with tooth loss.
Improved appearance
Another benefit of dental implants for older adults is that they can help improve their smile’s appearance. Dental implants are similar to natural teeth, which means they can blend in seamlessly with the other teeth. This can help restore confidence and improve the smile’s overall appearance.
It saves time and money
Dental implants are a one-time investment, unlike other alternative solutions to replacing lost teeth. You will not have to replace them like you would with dentures or bridges. In addition, dental implants can last for many years, so you will not have to spend money on frequent replacements.
Better smile
TThat full smile will make you feel much better about those photos with your grandkids. Dental implants will give you the strength and stability to show off your smile with pride.
How Do Elderly Patients Recover from The Procedure?
Dental implants involve a minimally invasive and gentle procedure often performed by specialist surgeons. It results in moderate pressure pain for most patients within 24-48 hours following implant placement. However, this discomfort is manageable with simple painkillers. Also, there is minimal swelling during this period. Beyond the initial 48 hours, the implant site usually settles, becoming unremarkable and trouble-free for the remainder of its time in the mouth. This means that elderly patients can expect a relatively smooth and comfortable recovery process after dental implant placement.
Are there chances of complications with dental implants for seniors?
Although dental implants are generally a safe and effective treatment option for seniors, there are always risks and potential complications associated with any dental surgery. These risks include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems and implant failure. However, these complications are rare and can be easily avoided by working with an experienced and reputable implant dentist.
Do elderly patients take longer to adjust to dental implants?
EElderly patients typically take longer to adjust to dental implants than younger patients. This is because they may have more difficulty healing from surgery, and their bones may not fuse to the implants as quickly. However, most elderly patients can still successfully adjust to their new implants and enjoy their benefits.
What are the costs of dental implants for seniors?
The cost of dental implants for seniors can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of implants being placed, the type of implants being used and the location of the implant dentist. However, dental implants are generally a more expensive treatment option than dentures or bridges. This is because they require surgery and are a more complex procedure.
Are there any special considerations for dental implants in seniors?
Yes, a few special considerations should be made for dental implants in seniors. First, the dentist will ensure the senior is healthy enough to undergo the surgery. They will check the senior’s bone density and overall health to determine if they are a good candidate for dental implants. If implants suit them, the dentists will suggest they take extra care of them to ensure they last for many years.
Even though dental implants might be more expensive, time-consuming, and have a few special considerations compared to other tooth replacement options, they offer several benefits that make them worth considering for seniors. Dental implants can help improve your smile’s appearance, restore confidence, and last many years with proper care. If you are considering dental implants, consult our implant dentist to ensure they are the right option. Call us at (03) 9646 2577 or email [email protected] to discuss your dental implant needs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Should elderly patients avoid dental implants?
This question has no definitive answer, as every patient’s situation differs. However, elderly patients should discuss dental implants with their dentist or oral surgeon to see if they are a good option. Patients with good health and strong bones may be good candidates for dental implants. However, those with chronic health conditions or weakened bones may not be ideal candidates for this procedure. Ultimately, it is essential to consult a professional to determine if dental implants are right for you.
Are dental implants expensive for seniors?
Dental implants can be expensive, but there are several ways to finance the procedure. Some dental plans cover a portion of the cost, and many implant manufacturers offer financing plans. Seniors may also be eligible for discounts through programs offered by dental schools or local clinics.
If you’re concerned about the cost of dental implants, talk to your dentist about your options. They can help you find a financing plan that works for you.
