Are There Age Restrictions For Dental Implants?
Are There Age Restrictions For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are regarded as the best option for replacing missing teeth as they’re inserted into the jaw and offer a permanent and natural appearance which is akin to real teeth. Here at Together Dental Southend we’ve seen a huge rise in the number of more elderly patients seeking dental implants in Southend, which leads us into answering the question of age restriction with regard to implants.
Dental implants are a great concept and one that is exceptionally versatile. The procedure can be modified and adapted in numerous ways that makes implants suitable for practically any patient, even those that are in their 70’s and 80’s. It’s this characteristic that makes them particularly appealing when you consider that almost half of the population over the age of 65 have missing teeth.
It is just worth mentioning here that children and adolescents are not able to have dental implants for the simple reason that their jaws are still developing and this would have a major impact on the success of any implant.
Studies have shown that it’s common for elderly patients to lose several or all of their teeth, and this can make life a struggle. Missing teeth make it hard to bite and chew food which can lead to digestive problems and limitations in diet, which can mean that an elderly person isn’t getting the vitamins that their body needs. Dentures are a solution but they can be uncomfortable and move around causing a sore mouth and making it difficult to talk and eat, which causes embarrassment. These changes can make a person feel older than they are, make them feel self-conscious and lowers their self esteem.
Your dentist in Southend may suggest dental implants which can be used in a variety of ways. For example they can replace single missing teeth; they can be used with a bridge to replace two or more teeth that are close together; or they can be used to support a set of dentures and stop them from moving around.
There are a few criteria which will determine whether you’re suitable for dental implants in Southend such as your oral health and your medical history. Any gum disease needs to be treated prior to dental implants being placed. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes need to be under control and your dentist needs to be aware of any medication you’re taking which could affect the healing process. Smoking also needs to be avoided.
It’s also essential for there to be sufficient bone in which to place the implants but this can often be overcome with a bone graft or using mini implants. However, the good news is that you’re never too old for a dental implant.
Get in touch
If you’re interested in learning more about how dental implants could help you or your elderly parent for example, then please get in touch with Together Dental Southend by calling 01702 465000.