It is critical for patients to be diligent in maintaining good health, especially as they start to age. Good health is maintained by regularly exercising and consuming a nutritious diet. Many patients forget that their oral health is a key factor in maintaining good overall health. Good oral health is maintained through practicing good oral hygiene. Unfortunately, patients may inevitably lose one or more teeth during their lifetime. The risk of tooth loss increases as patients get older. Fortunately, seniors have more options than ever for replacing their missing teeth.
Dental implants are arguably the best tooth-replacement treatment option currently available. Implants are comfortable and successfully restore the tooth’s function and appearance. This treatment helps improve the appearance of the patient’s smile and quality of life.
Many patients are excellent candidates for dental implants. Implants have an incredibly high success rate and very few complications. Patients with missing teeth should follow up with their dentist to discuss their treatment options.
Dental implants are surgically placed through a procedure completed by a dentist, prosthodontist, or periodontist. The implant, which is a screw-like device, is placed directly into the jawbone. During the healing process, the implant will actually fuse to the bone. This creates an incredibly secure base for the restoration. A connector is then attached, and an artificial crown is placed, giving the restoration its tooth-like appearance. In most cases, the dental professional will use a local or general anesthesia to ensure the patient remains comfortable. An over-the-counter pain medication is typically used following the procedure to manage any pain.
It is important for patients to select a dental professional with the necessary training and experience required to perform the dental implant procedure. In many cases, the implant procedure will be completed over the course of two or more visits. Some dentists also offer same-day dental implant placement. Be sure to discuss the expected timeline for the procedure and recovery with your dentist.
A summary of the top advantages of using dental implants for senior patients is provided below.
Diet
Dental implant restorations eliminate nearly all dietary restrictions for patients. Implants give patients the ability to bite and chew their food without worrying about the restoration falling out or slipping. Seniors are able to eat any food they like without any pain or irritation. The implant restoration gives patients the ability to eat the fruits and vegetables they love. A well-balanced and nutritious diet gives patients improved health and can also increase their energy levels. The ability to properly chew food also aids in the digestive process.
Appearance
Dental implants help seniors restore their confidence in their smile. Missing teeth can be embarrassing and make patients feel self-conscious. Some patients with missing teeth avoid smiling altogether. It is hard to measure the benefits of looking and feeling good.
Confidence
There is no debate that it is incredibly valuable for patients to feel confident in their appearance. An increased confidence helps patients feel better and increases their overall quality of life.
Cost
The upfront cost associated with implants is higher than the cost of dentures, however, dentures often require quite a bit of maintenance. Implants are an investment that will arguably pay off in the long run as they have significant benefits.
Maintenance
It is common for dentures to slip out of place or easily become damaged. They also require nightly removal for cleaning. Implants are permanently secured in place and cared for just like the natural teeth. Implants are incredibly comfortable and rarely require any maintenance.
Follow up with a dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.