Teeth are meant to last for a lifetime, but that does not happen for many people. 1 in 5 adults over the age of 65 doesn’t have any natural teeth remaining. Whether you’ve lost a couple of teeth or an entire arch, you can enjoy the next best thing to your real teeth with dental implants. You’ll need oral surgery, which may make you wonder if you’re too old to get them. There’s no age limit for dental implants, but there are a few things you should know.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
A dental implant is unlike any other treatment because it recreates both the root and the crown of a tooth. A titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to serve as a new root. Your bone will fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration. Once your bone has healed, an abutment is placed on the post to connect your custom-made restoration.
If you’ve lost several or all of your teeth, they are not replaced individually. Instead, 1-2 dental implants can support a bridge and 4-10 posts can support a denture. You’ll benefit from unmatched support and stability using a method that has over a 95% success rate.
Potential Age-Related Concerns
Most people with good oral and general health are candidates for dental implants, no matter their age. However, certain issues are associated with aging, which can’t increase your risk of complications. Your implant dentist will perform a comprehensive consultation to look for any concerns that may complicate your procedure, like:
- Gum Disease: 50% of adults have gum disease, so it’s not uncommon to require periodontal therapy before dental implant surgery.
- Bone Loss: You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year of losing a tooth, which will continue to decline over time. It’s not unusual to require bone grafting to enhance the strength of your jaw.
- Medications: Certain medications can affect your body’s ability to heal and fight infections. Your dentist will review any medications you’re taking to create a personalized plan to ensure your new smile is successful.
- Health Conditions: Various health issues become more common with age, like diabetes, osteoporosis, or heart disease. Your dentist will learn more about your medical history to ensure dental implants are right for you.
You can enjoy your golden years with a complete, beautiful smile. Dental implants can last for 30 years or longer, so you’ll never have to worry about replacing your lost teeth again.
About Dr. Steven Crovatto
Dr. Crovatto achieved his dental degree from the University of Florida and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, like dental implants, restorative dentistry, and extractions. If you’re ready to replace your lost teeth, choose a trusted dentist in Orange Park. Request an appointment online or call (904) 606-1788 to schedule your consultation for dental implants.