Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Thanks to their ability to replace the roots of the missing teeth, implants offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t get from dentures or dental bridges. However, if you are a senior, you may be wondering if dental implants are still suitable for you. Age isn’t one of the main factors that is considered when determining eligibility. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants and who they are ideal for.
What Is the Ideal Age to Get Dental Implants?
The good news is that dental implants can benefit people of any age as long as their jawbone has finished growing and developing. This is usually completed by your early 20s. Age isn’t a huge factor that is taken into consideration when considering the candidacy for dental implants. Instead, your dentist looks at your medical history, gum health, and integrity of your jawbone. If all those things are in order, you are likely a good candidate for the procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
During your consultation with your dentist, they will determine whether dental implants are right for you. Here are some qualities that make someone a good candidate.
- Gum Health: You are more likely to develop gum disease when you have dental implants vs your natural teeth. Ultimately, if you end up with gum disease, the bacteria can attach to the bone that supports your implant, including your risk of failure.
- Oral Hygiene: If you aren’t taking care of your smile currently, how will your dentist know that you will implement good oral hygiene after you get your implants? Just like natural teeth, dental implants need to be brushed twice and flossed daily to be successful.
- Lifestyle Choices: Patients who smoke or deal heavily can run into issues with their dental implants. Smoking doubles your risk of gum disease and slows down the healing process. Drinking heavily can’t interfere with healing and inhibit the clotting of blood.
- Sufficient Jawbone: Dental implants must be firmly anchored in the jawbone. They fuse together in a process called “osseointegration.” However, when you are missing teeth, their jawbone isn’t being stimulated by regular biting and chewing, resulting in bone less. A shrunken jawbone is unable to adequately support dental implants.
- Excellent Overall Health: Getting dental implants requires a surgical procedure, so it’s important that you are healthy enough to undergo this. Some chronic disease can create additional risks surrounding dental implants, so they must be considered. For example, if you have uncontrolled diabetes, it can be difficult for your body to prevent and fight against infections. This is why it is so important that your health history is discussed with your dentist.
To find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist. You will be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Steven Kendrick earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the Oklahoma University Colleg of Dentistry. Since then, he has undergone additional training from the Misch International Implant Institute and became an active member of the American Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Association, Oklahoma Dental Society, and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Midwest City, visit his website or call (405) 732-0431.