Your risk of tooth loss increases as you get older, so as the years go by it’s important to familiarize yourself with your options for filling any gaps in your smile. Dental implants are highly recommended due to their many benefits, of course, but you may have heard that they’re not a good choice for older patients. But is that actually true? Your dentist is here with the facts on whether age affects your ability to have dental implants placed.
Is There an Upper Age Limit for Dental Implants?
Not at all! As long as you are an adult with a fully developed jawbone, dental implants can be an effective way to replace any number of missing teeth regardless of how old you are. In fact, some people have dental implants placed while they’re in their 90s.
That being said, there are certain issues – such as gum disease and bone loss in your jaw – that need to be addressed before implants are placed. Your risk for many of said issues increases with your age. As such, your dentist will need to consider your oral and overall health carefully before they confirm that you’re a candidate for dental implant surgery.
How Does Your Dentist Decide if Dental Implants Are Right for You?
The dental implant process always begins with the initial consultation. During this visit, your dentist will capture X-rays of your jaw while taking the time to examine your entire mouth. They will also review your medical history and ask about any medications you might be taking.
You will be able to get dental implants if:
- You’re in good enough health for the surgery.
- You do not have gum disease.
- Your jawbone has enough bone for supporting and joining with dental implant posts.
Sometimes you might not currently qualify for dental implants but may still be able to consider them if certain preliminary procedures are performed first. Bone grafting is a common example since tooth loss often leads to a decreased level of bone tissue in the jaw. Your dentist will go over each required preliminary treatment with you and make sure that you know precisely why they need to be performed.
Why are Dental Implants a Good Choice?
There are several reasons why dental implants can be a great choice for seniors:
- They’re more stable than traditional dentures and make it easier to eat tough or chewy foods.
- Maintaining them is similar to taking care of your real teeth. (As an example, you can brush and floss them the same way.)
- They feel very natural and can help you feel more confident about your appearance.
These are just a few of the advantages. Suffice to say, dental implants can be life-changing in a variety of ways. No matter how old you are, it’s worth talking to your dentist to see if dental implants could be the tooth replacement solution you need.
About the Practice
At La Prada Family Dentistry of Garland, we accept all kinds of patients regardless of age. We offer late and Saturday appointments to make getting the quality care you deserve more convenient. If you’re considering having dental implants placed, we can handle the entire treatment in-house. To schedule a consultation with us, visit our website or call (214) 473-5696.
