Good oral health is critical for patients of all ages. Patients must be especially diligent in maintaining good oral health as they get older. Good oral health is an important element of good overall health as well. In order to have good oral health, patients need to have good oral hygiene practices with twice daily brushing, daily flossing and routine visits to the dentist. It is actually quite common for patients to lose one or more teeth throughout their life. As patients age, they are at an increased risk for tooth loss. Modern dentistry now offers more tooth replacement options than ever before for seniors.
One exceptional tooth-replacement treatment option is dental implants. Implants are a relatively new treatment option within the past few decades. They are extremely comfortable, secure, and have a high success rate. Implants can restore the function and appearance of the missing tooth. Another benefit of implants is that they improve the patient’s quality of life, confidence, and appearance.
Dental implants are a great solution for many patients as they have a high success rate with a low risk for complications. Patients should contact their dentist to discuss if they may be a good candidate for implants or another tooth-replacement treatment option.
The dental implant procedure begins with the surgical placement of the implant. The implant is a screw-like device which is placed directly into the jawbone. As the mouth heals, the implant fuses to the jawbone forming a strong and secure base. The artificial crown is then connected to the implant, which gives the restoration a very natural appearance. Dental professionals typically use a general or local anesthetic to make sure the patient is comfortable. Over-the-counter pain medications can be used to manage pain immediately following the procedure.
Patients should be diligent in selecting a dental professional who has the required experience and training needed to successfully complete the dental implant procedure. The implant procedure is usually completed during a few visits, allowing the mouth adequate time to heal. In some cases, the dental professional may offer same-day implant placement. The dentist will review the expected timeline with patients prior to the procedure.
Dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement treatment option. Below is a summary of key advantages of dental implants for senior patients.
Appearance
Dental implants give patients confidence in having a beautifully restored smile after tooth loss. It can be embarrassing for adult patients to have missing teeth, even making them feel self-conscious at times. Patients who are missing teeth may avoid smiling which can expose a missing tooth. Implants resolve this issue and restore the patient’s smile.
Confidence
It is invaluable for patients to feel confident in the way they look. Implants can help increase the patient’s confidence, improve their quality of life, and make them generally feel better.
Diet
Implants eliminate the need for dietary restrictions and modifications which are often required with dentures or missing teeth. Because implants are incredibly secure, patients can consume the food they love without the risk of the restoration slipping or coming loose. Implants are also very comfortable and do not require adhesives to stay in place. Implants can help promote the consumption of fruits and vegetables which are critical for a balanced diet and healthy digestive system. A healthy diet promotes good overall health and aids in giving patients energy to remain active.
Investment
While the upfront cost for implants is higher compared to dentures, implants require little to no maintenance. Dental implants are an investment that comes with substantial long-term benefits.
Maintenance
It is common for dentures to become damaged over time and slip out of place. Dentures also fail to stimulate the jawbone, which can result in bone loss. Implants are incredibly durable, stimulate the jawbone, and do not require ongoing maintenance. A major benefit of implants is that they are permanently secured in place and cared for just like the natural teeth.
Patients should work with their dentist to determine if they may be a good candidate for implants. Implants can be an excellent tooth-replacement solution for patients of all ages, including seniors.