Dental Implants for Seniors
If you are an older adult struggling with tooth loss you should consider dental implant treatment. Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option that offer an easy and reliable way for seniors to replace missing teeth. Implants can help to enhance the appearance of the smile, restore the function of natural teeth, and improve your overall quality of life. If you are missing one or more teeth and are interested in learning more about dental implants, here is more information for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a metal post that is securely implanted into the jawbone. Dental implants are designed to act like the root of a natural tooth, offering stability, security, and helping to maintain the shape of the mouth and jaw. After the surgical implant procedure is performed by a prosthodontist or periodontist, a several month healing period occurs when the implant should fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant is securely fused to the bone, a connector called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant to attach an artificial crown. To reduce any possible pain and discomfort experienced during the implant surgery, it is common for providers to administer local or general anesthesia.
Advantages of Dental Implants for Seniors
Dental implants offer many benefits to seniors who are suffering with missing teeth. You should consider the benefits of dental implants if you are in the process of deciding on the best tooth replacement option for you. Some of the top advantages include:
- Improved Ability to Eat: A dental implant can fully restore your lost ability to bite and chew. With an implant you will be able to return to eating foods that may have been previously painful and irritating to eat. For example, you will be able to eat fruits and vegetables that you haven’t eaten for years. Being able to eat more fruits and vegetables means you will also experience nutritional benefits that may lead to improvements in health and energy levels.
- Improved Appearance: Dental implants will also improve the appearance of the smile, minimizing the embarrassment caused by missing teeth. You may have not realized how much you worry over the appearance of your smile.
- Improved Quality of Life: Dental implants improve the quality of life in many ways. Being more confident in the appearance of your smile will make you feel better about yourself. Additionally, restoring chewing function will allow you to eat more foods and benefit nutritionally. Enjoying foods you love, smiling fully, and feeling healthier will all enhance your overall quality of life.
- Saving Money: Dental implants offer a permanent dental solution for a one-time investment. This investment may seem costly at first, however, it is important to remember that alternative tooth replacement options may require regular maintenance over time. In the long run, dental implants will help you save money.
- Ease of Care: Alternative tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges are affordable and quick. However, many of these alternatives require more care. Dental implants are fixed in place, and can be cared for just like natural teeth, with routine brushing and flossing.