Dental Implant Over 60
A common misconception is that we will inevitably lose all our teeth and be forced to eat nothing but soft foods as we get older. Many incorrectly assume that the only remedy for lost teeth are the traditional removable dentures worn by our parents or grandparents.
Fortunately, dental implants offer patients a modern alternative for restoring lost teeth. Barring any underlying health problems, virtually anyone can be a candidate for dental implants regardless of age. As such, nobody is “too old” for implants and it is never “too late” to restore their smiles and resume eating the foods they enjoy.
While ages itself is not prohibitive when considering dental implants, there are several things patients over 60 should be aware of when determining if the procedure is appropriate for their needs.
Osteoporosis
A bone disease that leads to bone loss and brittle bones, osteoporosis is common in elderly people. Post-menopausal women are especially susceptible to osteoporosis and those with the condition, have a high likelihood of losing at least one tooth from the disease.
Because of the effects it has on the bones, many osteoporosis patients may believe the condition prevents them from dental implant candidacy. In reality, whether the patient has osteoporosis or not, does not impact their ability to get dental implants. Dental implants may still be a viable option in cases where the patient has already experienced bone loss in their jaw and because implants can restore chewing functionality, nutrition can improve reducing future bone loss progression.
Life Expectancy Increase
Patients should also realize that life expectancies are longer now than any previous generation. While no one can predict how much time they have remaining, people in their 60s and 70s could easily live another 20+ years. With that in mind, would anyone want to deal with the hassles of missing teeth for another decade or more? Requiring a few days of discomfort and some months to heal, dental implants could allow you to properly chew the remainder of your life.
Improved Quality of Life
Being able to enjoy life, regardless of how much time we have left, is important. Because age is not a factor, patients in their 80s ad 90s have had implant surgery done. Patients that choose not to have implants, often have to modify their diet or overcompensate with their remaining teeth when eating. By sticking to soft foods or avoiding certain groups altogether, health, and enjoyment of mealtime, can be negatively impacted. Dental implants can restore functionality allowing patients to enjoy a better quality of life.
Dentures vs. Implants
When compared to dental implants, traditional dentures are typically less expensive. However, the benefits of dental implants tend to outweigh the cost:
- Taste meals fully because implants take up less space in the mouth.
- Unlike dentures that only rest on the gums, implants are permanently secured in the jawbone. This eliminates slipping and provides a more sturdy foundation.
- Do not require messy adhesives to hold in place.
- Can last for life unlike dentures that need replacement every several years.
- Eliminates the need to remove and soak dentures; implants can be brushed like normal teeth.