How Old Is Too Old for Dental Implants?
Health, not age, is the deciding factor when it comes to getting dental implants.
The idea that it is possible to be “too old” for dental implants is a one of the most damaging dental myths out there. The reality of the matter is that dental implants can deliver significant benefits to patients of all ages, and help aging individuals maintain their quality of life.
Are You a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Health, not age, is a much more important factor in deciding whether or not a patient is a good candidate for dental implants. Generally speaking, if you are in good enough health for elective surgery, you can get dental implants. Individuals who have habits or conditions that could interfere with healing after surgery, such as leukemia patients or tobacco users, would not make good candidates for implants.
Of course, your oral health will also need to be evaluated. The best implant candidates will be free from gum disease and have a healthy amount of bone mass in their jaw to support the implants. Your commitment to your oral hygiene should also be considered, as keeping your mouth clean and healthy will play a huge role in avoiding complications with the implants during healing.
You Can Enjoy These Benefits of Dental Implants
Assuming you are a good candidate for dental implants, you will be able to enjoy some very valuable benefits after your procedure.
Health Benefits: Dental implants can help support your oral health and your overall health. How? First of all, dental implants arrest bone loss in the jaw because bone will actually bond with the titanium implant pegs. This can help preserve other teeth that might otherwise become loose due to weakening bone structure. Dental implants will also give you the ability to continue eating a variety of fresh, crunchy raw fruits and vegetables and other hard-to-chew foods, thus supporting your overall health with good nutrition.
Quality of Life Benefits: Dental implants can help individuals with missing teeth feel less self-conscious, which prevents withdrawal into social isolation and supports overall quality of life. This has been scientifically proven with at least one study, in which older women fitted with dental implants reported higher satisfaction with their work, health, emotional, and sexual lives than women who received dentures or no treatment for missing teeth.
What About the Costs?
Some older individuals may be reluctant to get dental implants because they don’t think it is cost-effective based on the number of years they think they have left to live. But remember, you never really know how many years you have left. Don’t you want to enjoy them with the highest possible quality of life?
To learn more about getting dental implants, please make an appointment at the California Dental Group location nearest you.
