Dental Implants for Seniors
Approximately 30 percent of the adults over the age of 65 years in the United States are missing all or almost all of their natural teeth. Regardless of how common it is for seniors to have missing teeth; no older adults should have to struggle with tooth loss. Dental implants offer a reliable and permanent way for seniors to replace missing teeth. Implants can help restore the function of the natural teeth, recuperate the health of the gums and mouth, and improve overall quality of life. If you are an older adult in search of the right tooth replacement option, below is more information on dental implant treatment.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are metal or ceramic posts that are surgically installed in the jawbone. Implants are designed to act like the root of a natural tooth, offering stability, security, and durability. After the implant surgery, a healing period is necessary to allow time for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant has fused with the bone, an artificial crown can be attached to the top of the implant. From start to finish the entire implant treatment process can take several months up to one year.
Advantages of Dental Implants for Seniors
Dental implants offer many benefits to seniors looking for a tooth replacement treatment. Some of the top advantages of dental implants include:
- Improved Ability to Eat: Dental implants can fully restore the ability to bite and chew that may have been lost with missing teeth. With an implant you will be able to once again eat foods that may have been previously painful to eat, including fresh fruits and vegetables that you haven’t been able to eat for years. Along with eating more fruits and vegetables will come the nutritional benefits those fresh foods provide, leading to improvements in your overall health and energy level.
- Improved Appearance: Depending on which teeth are missing, dental implants can help improve the appearance of the smile. You may not have realized how much you have been hiding your smile.
Improved Quality of Life: Dental implants can help improve your quality of life in many ways. Improved appearance of the smile will likely increase your self-esteem. Additionally, restoring chewing function will allow you to eat more fresh foods and enjoy the nutritional benefits. Enjoying healthy foods, speaking clearly, smiling fully, will all improve your overall quality of life. - Saving Money: Dental implants offer a permanent dental solution. While implants may be an investment upfront, it is important to remember that alternative tooth replacement options will likely require regular maintenance and investment over time. This means that dental implants can help you save money over time.
- Ease of Care: Dentures or bridges are alternative tooth replacement options that offer an affordable and quick replacement solution. However, overtime many of these alternatives require more care and maintenance. Once they are installed, dental implants only require daily brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth.