You’ve heard the saying, “Age is just a number,” but is it true when it comes to dental implants? You may be thinking that you would like your smile to be fully restored with the help of these customized prosthetics, but are you too old? Have the days of a permanent smile passed you by? A local dental expert shares why age doesn’t matter when it comes to living life with dental implants.
Does Age Matter with Dental Implants?
When it comes to your age, it does matter to some extent but not as much as your general oral and overall health.
Your age only becomes a factor when discussing the difficulties that can arise when treating a more mature smile (i.e., bone loss, health-related issues such as heart disease, etc.); however, if you have no other signs of dental decay, gum disease, or bone loss, you can expect these prosthetics to be an ideal option for your smile.
What are the Benefits of Seniors Receiving Dental Implants?
Choosing to have dental implants put in place in your 60s, 70s, 80s, or even your 90s can provide many great benefits, some of which include:
- Being able to eat the foods you love. If you previously wore dentures, you discovered how difficult it can be to enjoy certain meals because of the instability of your teeth. With dental implants, you can eat all types of food with confidence.
- Reduced bone loss because of how implants stimulate your jawbone. This minimizes facial sagging to create a more youthful appearance as well as minimize potential tooth loss.
- Prevention of accidental dislodging because of how effective dental implants are in supporting the overlying teeth.
Is the Process for Dental Implant Placement the Same?
Yes, no matter how old you are, you can expect the same four steps to be taken when placing dental implants – scheduled consultation, dental implant surgery, osseointegration/abutment placement, and delivery of the final restoration.
While some preliminary treatments may be required (i.e., bone grafting, gum disease treatment, tooth extraction, etc.), you can expect there to be minimal difference in the process of receiving your new, permanent teeth.
What you will find when opting for dental implants at your age is that you walk away with a smile that lasts longer and looks healthier than before – a reality that you can enjoy no matter your stage in life.
About the Author
Dr. William Poe is a trusted dentist in Los Alamitos who possesses extensive training and experience in everything from cosmetic and neuromuscular treatment to implant placement and more. His ability to rebuild smiles plagued by missing teeth makes him popular among individuals who desire a better way of life. If you or a loved one needs help to improve your oral health and appearance but worry that you may be too old for dental implants, visit our website or call (562) 594-5067 to find out how we can help.