As you age, the chances of you losing your teeth increases. This may be due to a few different reasons. Whatever the case may be, once you begin losing your teeth, you’ll want to consider replacement options. While many people think immediately of dentures for seniors, there is often the option for dental implants over the age of 60.
What Are Implants?
Dental implants are dental prosthetics that involve the placement of a titanium screw in the jawbone to hold a dental crown or crowns in place via an abutment or abutments. Dental implants are often used to replace a single tooth, but they can also be used to replace a section of a patient’s teeth and even a whole row of teeth.
Dental implants are a more secure option than dentures, which makes them an appealing choice for those with teeth that are missing or falling out.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
There are a variety of advantages that come with dental implants. Some of these benefits include:
* High Quality of Life. With dental implants, you are able to bite and chew most of your favorite foods. Without implants or with dentures, this may not be the case. Dental implants increase the diversity of food you are able to eat and, in turn, improve your quality of life.
* Healthy Teeth. If you have a missing tooth or teeth, your healthy, remaining teeth may begin to shift and drift over time. This can lead to crowding and impacting of healthy teeth. Once this occurs, brushing and flossing can be more difficult, which increases your chances of gum disease, cavities and other oral health issues. Dental implants help to keep your teeth in place.
* Cost. While the upfront cost of dental implants may seem high, they definitely pay for themselves in the long run. Because dental implants help you to better care for your oral health, you may save a lot of money that you would have spent addressing these issues.
* Jawbone Integrity. If your jawbone isn’t holding a tooth or implant in place, it can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants help to keep your jawbone intact.
* Higher Self-Esteem. With dental implants, you can smile wide and with confidence. This helps to boost your overall self-esteem.
Can I Still Get Implants with Osteoporosis?
If you have osteoporosis, you may not think you are a candidate for dental implants. This isn’t always the case, though. Many patients with osteoporosis are still good candidates for dental implants.
Speak with Your Dentist
If you are looking for a tooth replacement option and you are over 60, dental implants may be an excellent option. Set an appointment with your dentist if a tooth or teeth have fallen out. They’ll take a look at your teeth, gums and jawbone and decide on what is the best course of action to meet your needs and budget.
From there, you can discuss different replacement options—such as dentures or dental implants.