As great as dental implants are, you may think they only “work” for younger adults. It’s a common thought that older folks can’t withstand the posts’ placement process. With that said, you’d be wrong in your assumption; a person is never too old for dental implants! Adults of all ages can receive and benefit from these replacement teeth. If you want the details, keep reading to learn why no adult is too old for dental implants.
Never “Too Old” for Dental Implants
Despite what rumors say, a person’s age doesn’t disqualify them from dental implants. Both young and old adults can receive the treatment just fine.
Current research serves as evidence of this fact. For example, a 2004 study found that implant patients over and under 80 had the same success rate after five years. Most dentists have also concluded that implants are the best option for seniors. Indeed, getting them can address an elderly patient’s high risk of tooth loss and restore their smile.
Whether you qualify for implants has more to do with your health. So long as you have a fairly strong smile, you’d likely be a good candidate for them.
How Dental Implants Work for Seniors
Having said all that, dental implant surgery is a bit different for senior patients. The placement process has to proceed more carefully than it would for younger people.
Notably, seniors recover from implant work at a slower rate. Since their bodies aren’t as robust as those decades younger, they need more time to heal. Even so, any post-treatment aches should only last 3-5 days; such soreness is also manageable with painkillers.
Why Consider Dental Implants at All?
Even with a longer surgery, dental implants are worthwhile for seniors. These replacement teeth offer many benefits, including:
- Lifelike Looks – Dental implants act like natural teeth, as they have porcelain surfaces and fuse with your jaw. You can trust they won’t slip or fall like a denture might.
- A Young Face – While tooth loss can cause facial collapse, implants prevent (and even reverse) that effect. That means they’ll help your face look young, firm, and vibrant!
- Easy Eating – Since implants fuse with your jaw, they restore much (if not all) of your bite force. The result is that they let you eat your favorite tough foods again.
- Long-Lasting Results – The average dental implant can already last 15-20 years. If given proper care, your own could work for 30 years or more.
You’re never too old for dental implants, so don’t use age as an excuse. See your dental provider for these replacement teeth soon!
About the Practice
Rosemeade Dental is based in Carrollton, TX. Led by Dr. Tarangini Suggala, our practice is ready and eager to be your one-stop shop for every dental need. We happen to offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative dentistry, as well as emergency oral care. That naturally means we also provide (and place) dental implants! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (972)-446-1111.