Maintaining proper oral health is especially important as you age. You become more vulnerable to dental problems due to aging, medication use, and underlying health conditions. Your teeth may undergo several changes affecting their appearance, strength, and function. In addition, your teeth may be at a higher risk of decay, infection, discolouration, and tooth loss (especially if you have had significant decay or gum disease).
Missing teeth are common among seniors and can affect their quality of life. You may experience problems chewing and speaking properly and bone loss in your jaw. The good news is that you can replace missing teeth with dental implants if you want a long-term, reliable solution. A tooth implant looks and feels like a natural tooth, benefiting seniors like you in many ways.
What are dental implants? Are they a better alternative to removable dentures? Are they safe and effective for seniors? Read on to learn more about dental implants for older people.
How Is the Dental Implant Process Conducted?
The purpose of dental implants is to support a replacement tooth or bridge by surgically implanting artificial roots into the jawbone. They can be an excellent option if you have lost teeth due to injury, disease, or something else. In fact, most dentists will tell you that dental implants have up to a 99% success rate. This means there’s a 1% risk of dental implant failure.
What is the procedure for dental implants? Dental implants can take several months to complete, but once they are done, they provide a strong, long-lasting replacement tooth that looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
The first step is scheduling a consultation with a qualified dental implant specialist before a dental implant placement procedure. The implant can take several months to integrate into the jawbone after placement. During this time, you must avoid putting pressure on the implant and follow post-operative care instructions provided by the dentist.
Once the implant has fully integrated, the dentist will attach an abutment to the top. Your dentist will then attach the restoration to the abutment (usually a dental crown, bridge, or denture). The dentist usually creates a custom restoration once the gums have healed around the abutment.
Are Dental Implants Safe for Seniors?
As for whether dental implants are safe for seniors, the answer is yes—in most cases. If you are in good health and have sufficient bone density in your jaw, getting dental implants is not a problem.
The procedure may require extra precautions if you take certain medications, such as blood thinners, to prevent excessive bleeding.
Overall, deciding whether to get a single or full-mouth dental implant should be made in consultation with your oral health professional, who can assess your health status and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. You can also ask a family dental professional about the potential cost of dental implants to avoid blowing your budget.
Benefits of Dental Implants for Seniors
Here are the benefits of dental implants for seniors and why they are an excellent option for restoring your smile and improving your overall quality of life:
- Better diet and nutrition
Dental implants allow you to chew your food more effectively and enjoy a wider variety of foods. With missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures, you may have difficulty eating hard, crunchy, or chewy foods. Dental implants can help you maintain good overall health and prevent malnutrition by restoring your ability to eat a healthy, balanced diet.
- Increased self-confidence
Missing teeth can make you self-conscious and reluctant to smile or speak in public. Dental implants can restore self-confidence by giving you a natural-looking, attractive smile you can be proud of. This can positively impact your social life, personal relationships, and overall well-being.
- Convenience and comfort
Dental implants are a convenient and comfortable solution for those wanting a low-maintenance dental restoration. A dental implant feels and functions like a natural tooth, unlike dentures, which can be uncomfortable, ill-fitting, or require adhesives. Implants can be cared for just like natural teeth, which means you can continue enjoying your favourite foods and activities without worrying about your dental restoration.
- Improved speech
As stated earlier, missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can affect your speaking ability. Dental implants can help resolve this problem, allowing you to speak naturally and clearly, which can positively impact your personal and professional life.
- Long-term durability
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution to missing teeth, and with proper care, they can last for many years. This is particularly important for those who want to avoid replacing dental restorations frequently. Dental implants can offer seniors peace of mind and stability by providing a permanent solution.
- Improved oral health
Dental implants can help preserve bone density in the jaw and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting or becoming loose. This is particularly critical for seniors, who may be at an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. By preserving the natural structure of the mouth, dental implants can help to maintain overall oral health and reduce the risk of future dental problems.
Should I Get Dentures or Implants?
Dental implants and dentures are both popular options for seniors who have lost some or all of their teeth. However, their advantages and disadvantages differ depending on your needs and situation. While dental implants are often considered the superior option, dentures may still be a viable choice for some patients.
Dental implants are designed to resemble natural teeth in appearance and function. They are permanently anchored to the jawbone, providing a more natural bite and allowing for a wider range of foods you can eat comfortably. Also, dental implants can last many years with proper care, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
On the other hand, dentures may be a better option for those who need a more affordable or less invasive solution or have only a few missing teeth. They can also be ideal for those who want to avoid lengthy procedures with multiple appointments.
While dental implants do not require special maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing, dentures must be removed and cleaned regularly. This may not bother others, but some patients may find it inconvenient.
Ultimately, deciding whether to choose dental implants or dentures should be based on your unique needs and preferences. Again, consultation with a dental professional is vital in determining an ideal treatment for your situation.
Are you looking for a trusted dental clinic for dental implants in Sarnia for you or a family member? Book an appointment with Lambton Family Dental, where we prioritize you and your family’s overall oral hygiene. You can call us at 519-344-5747 with any questions.