Tooth loss is a part of growing older but suffering uncomfortable dentures certainly doesn’t have to be! Today’s seniors have a wide variety of choices surrounding tooth replacement technology and dental implants have quickly come to hold the top spot in terms of preferred options. Not only are dental implants possible for most seniors, they offer a number of important benefits, from increased comfort to a notable increase in confidence and overall quality of life.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants are composed of a three-part titanium system that provide replacement for not just the crown, as conventional dentures do, but also the dental roots. Surgically embedded into the jaw, the prosthetic root of the dental implant is what gives them their tremendous strength and functionality.
Because dental implants require an initial surgical procedure followed by two to four months of dedicated healing time during which the implant slowly fuses with the jaw, the process of obtaining dental implants can take some time and planning. Once the implant has integrated with the jaw, however, the prosthetic crown(s) that they support are much stronger and functional than that of conventional dentures, offering seniors an important array of benefits.
Benefits of Dental Implants for Seniors
Unlike conventional dentures, which merely rest upon the surface of the gums and are held in place with dental adhesives, dental implants transfer the power of each bite and chewing motion deep into the jaw, which is much better equipped to absorb this energy than the delicate tissues of the gums.
This natural power transfer, combined with the fact that dental implants are secured in place and thereby immobile, makes for a much more comfortable daily lived experience. In contrast to conventional dentures, dental implants simply do not slip out of place unbidden, causing discomfort and even social embarrassment.
Dental implants are also more functional than dentures, allowing those with implants to enjoy a much wider range of foods. This can alleviate stress around mealtimes with friends and family when one is not in charge of the menu. Steak this evening? No problem with dental implants!
With dental implants, there is no need to take them out at night and soak them in a cleaning solution to keep them clean; simply brush, floss, and rinse as normal. That’s all there is to it!
Finally, dental implants can improve one’s overall appearance – and thereby their self-confidence – by supporting the facial structure around the mouth and preserving the bone mass in the jaw that will in turn prevent the future deterioration of these structures. While this is primarily a cosmetic concern, it also contributes to a real increase in quality of life for many seniors, and as such is an important benefit to consider.
Talking to Your Dentist about Dental Implants
If you are a senior who thinks that dental implants might contribute to your quality of life, call a trusted dentist today for a personal consultation. She or he will be able to talk you through the process, ask you some questions about your needs and expectations, and work with you to determine if you are in fact a good candidate for implants. Don’t let your age dissuade you; dental implants are an excellent choice for seniors. Call today, you won’t regret it!