Tooth loss is a common problem among older adults. Things like gum disease, decay, and other issues could leave you with an incomplete smile. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers advanced solutions for replacing lost teeth — including dental implants. Still, if you are up in years, you might wonder if you are too old for dental implants. The answer is no! This blog post explains what you should know about pursuing tooth replacement during your golden years.
No Upper Age Limit for Dental Implants
There is no upper age limit for dental implants. In fact, as long as you are healthy enough to undergo minor oral surgery, you may be a candidate for this life-changing procedure. Many seniors in their 70s, 80s, and even their 90s have successfully completed this treatment.
With that being said, it is important to keep in mind that some health problems that are common among older people might affect your candidacy. For example, if you have diabetes, gum disease, or other conditions that might affect your tooth replacement process, these should be addressed or well-managed prior to your implant procedure.
What to Expect from the Treatment Process
There is no need to be nervous about the dental implant process. During your consultation, your care provider can walk you through what to expect; feel free to ask questions, and you can bring a support person with you to help you take notes and process the information you learn.
After any necessary preliminary care, you will undergo the dental implant surgery. Advanced age might cause you to heal a bit more slowly than younger individuals, but if you follow post-op instructions, the chances of a smooth recovery are very good. In fact, the overall success rate for dental implants is more than 95%, so you can confidently look forward to a positive outcome!
Benefits of Getting Your Teeth Replaced as a Senior
Dental implants can greatly enhance your health and quality of life in a number of ways:
- Improved ability to eat a wide variety of foods, leading to better nutrient intake.
- Enhanced speech and confidence in social situations.
- Prevention of bone loss in the jaw, which supports your facial structure and may help you look younger.
- Stable and secure tooth replacement that is superior to traditional dentures.
Your age should not hold you back from enjoying a strong and healthy smile! Talk to a qualified dentist to discover if dental implants are a good fit for your circumstances.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Shawn Schlessel and Benjamin Hornstein are proud to provide comprehensive dental implant services in our Beachwood, OH, practice. We welcome patients of all ages, and we especially enjoy helping seniors enhance their quality of life through reliable tooth replacement. To learn more about us or to set up a consultation, contact The Center for Advanced Dentistry at 216-595-1710.