Dental Implants are often considered the gold standard of dental healthcare. They’re easier to clean and care for than removable dentures, and they feel much more real when you chew. They’re also incredibly durable, lasting around 3-4 times longer than other tooth replacement options. That said, getting dental implants does require surgery. This can make older patients wonder if the option is available to them. If you’re in that situation, here’s a guide that can tell you everything you need to know.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are different from every other tooth replacement option in that they are secured directly to the jaw. A small titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, which heals to secure the post into place. Then a crown—usually made of porcelain—is placed on top of the post. The result is an incredibly realistic artificial tooth.
How Old is Too Old for Dental Implants?
The truth is that no one is too old to get a dental implant. In fact, a 2004 study found that dental implants given to patients over the age of 80 had identical success rates to those given to younger patients. Any reasonably healthy person should be able to get dental implants without any issues. The only difference is that older patients will likely take a little bit longer to recover after the procedure, so your implant dentist may wait an extra month after the post is set before putting the crown in place.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dental Implants
While age doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from receiving treatment, there are some conditions that primarily affect seniors that could be problematic. Older people are more likely to have rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that attacks the joints. The most common treatment for this disorder is immune suppressants, which can affect the body’s ability to heal. Seniors with rheumatoid arthritis should inform their dentist of their condition, as the medications they take could potentially interfere with their dental implant’s success.
Your health, not your age, will be the determining factor of whether you can receive implants. You shouldn’t let concerns about the procedure stop you from experiencing the many benefits that dental implants have to offer.
About the Author
Dr. John Tunnell is a certified periodontist who aims to do more than just treat disease—his goal with every patient is to understand where they’re coming from, so he can lead them to the smile of their dreams. As an expert in placing dental implants, you can be certain that he will do whatever it takes to ensure that your procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Dr. Tunnel earned his DDS from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and he’s a proud member of both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology. If you have any questions about dental implants, he can be reached at his website, or by phone at (469) 640-6730.