Dental Implants For Seniors
Seniors and Dental Implants
Staying healthy is a great way to feel better longer as we age. Exercise and healthy diets can be important aspects of staying healthy. Making sure we pay attention to optimal oral health is also important. Generally, brushing and flossing regularly combined with regular visits to the dentist goes a long way to supporting good oral health.
As time goes by however, depending on circumstances and various factors, some people do lose teeth as they get older. Luckily, there are now great quality options for replacing teeth.
Implant treatments can allow for quality restoration of chewing function, and offer a natural look and feel, thus improving appearance as well as the quality of life.
Other Dental Implants Basics
As a general rule surgery is required for dental implants. This treatment is given by a prosthodontist or a periodontist. During a dental implant treatment small metal rods are inserted into the jawbone. Once the bone fuses with the rods, a small connective piece (called an abutment) is used, and eventually a crown (a prosthetic tooth) is placed over top. This crown resembles a natural tooth.
In the implant procedure, anesthesia (local or general depending on the treatment and patient) will be administered. After the surgery, in the recovery period, over-the-counter pain medication is an option for helping with any discomfort or pain.
Advantages of Implants for Seniors
There are some advantages to getting dental implants worth considering for seniors exploring their options for implant treatments:
- Improvements to Bite Function and Eating Abilities: One of the biggest benefits of dental implants for seniors is that bite function and chewing can often be fully restored. This allows for enjoying favorite foods again, the ability to eat more variety of foods again, and nutrition is then increased. With better nutrition comes more energy and better overall health. With better chewing function there is often better digestion. Overall, when seniors are able to chew better and enjoy eating, they will feel better physically and mentally.
- Improvements to Appearance: Feeling positive about one’s appearance is often an integral part of maintaining a healthy self image. A healthy self image can affect various aspects of health, including mental health, which can be important for everyone. Dental implants can often help seniors feel comfortable smiling again.
- Cost Effective: Traditional dentures often require maintenance over time. While dental implants can seem costly initially, they offer a permanent solution, which in the long run can prove to be a sound financial investment.
- Ease of Care: Since implants are fixed, this allows them to be cared for in exactly the same way natural teeth are cared for. As with your natural teeth it is recommended that you brush at least twice a day and floss at least twice a day. Consistent and routine scheduled checkups and cleanings are recommended as well. Implants are generally considered to feel more comfortable than traditional dentures, and so this naturally helps in the care procedures, too.
As with any dental procedures you may be considering, make sure to consult with your dentist if you are a senior considering dental implants.