Tooth loss is one of the most serious dental problems facing older patients today. Missing teeth reduce oral strength, detract from oral functions and interfere with the beauty of the smile. Dental implants are simply the best restorative solution for patients with tooth loss since they mimic natural teeth. These dental wonders have become quite useful tools for restoring smiles across all ages. Dental implant treatments are helping people enhance their dental health, appearance and quality of life. You might have thought that you are too old to get dental implants. You will, however, be pleased to know that people in their 80s heal just as well as younger patients after undergoing the procedure.
Understanding Dental Implant SuccessThe success of a dental implant procedure depends on the fusion of the dental implant with the jawbone. In older patients, the jawbone tends to be weaker as a result of the aging process, especially if the patient has been missing teeth for a significant amount of time. Fortunately, advances in bone grafting technology have made it possible for people with bone loss to get dental implants as well. Bone grafting restores the strength of the weakened jawbone and allows for dental implant treatment in older patients.
Dental Implants vs. DenturesOlder patients were used to dentures for a long time as they were the only tooth replacement option available. Dentists have discovered that dentures deter patients from chewing properly and they may cause major damage to the jawbone.
Apart from the bad effects that dentures have on the jawbone, they can slip out of the mouth at any time. These issues are uncomfortable, and they make it difficult to talk. For these reasons, most dentists recommend older patients to get dental implants instead. Unfortunately, the cost of getting dental implants is typically higher than getting dentures and this discourages most patients. However, the benefits and beauty of the treatment make the cost well worth it.
Benefits of Dental Implant Treatments for Older PatientsOlder patients stand to gain a lot from dental implant treatments. Some benefits include:
- Enjoyment and ease of eating
- Preservation of the jawbone as a result of not using dentures
- Protection from tooth shifting since all the gaps in between the teeth will be filled in by the dental implants
- A stronger and healthier smile
- Proper nutrition since chewing becomes more comfortable
- Greater confidence and an improved appearance
Your age should not deter you from getting the smile that you have always wanted. If you want to get your dental implant procedure done, go for it! High quality procedures like bone grafting, allow patients to take advantage of dental implants and reap all the benefits associated with this life-changing procedure.
If you are interested in getting dental implants, schedule a consultation with one of our certified dentists at Guerrino Dentistry today. We have highly skilled dentists who are experienced in dental implant procedures and can help create the beautiful smile that you deserve.
