Dental Implants for Seniors: The Types and Benefits
It's essential to stay informed about various procedures to guarantee you administer the best care possible to all patients. Elderly patients are likely to come into the office with an array of damaged teeth that have weathered over the years and, having read up about the process and cost of dental implants, have decided that this is going to be the best solution for them. Let’s now learn about the most common dental implants for seniors and their benefits.
Types of Dental Implants for Seniors
Dental implants are an advantageous addition for seniors with missing or broken teeth, good jawbone density, and oral hygiene. If your patient is a good candidate for implants, here are some of the options to consider.
Endosteal Implants
These widely used dental implants are renowned for their exceptional durability and strength. They are positioned within the jawbone to serve as the artificial tooth root and provide a stable foundation for the teeth. Endosteal implants integrate with the surrounding bone for long-term reliability and natural-looking results.
Subperiosteal Implants
The subperiosteal implant is placed beneath the gum but above the jawbone. The specialized implant option is for patients with shallow jawbones or those unable to undergo bone augmentation surgery.
This implant type offers a secure and stable foundation for dental restorations. As a dentist, you can revitalize a patient’s confidence, smile, and oral function.
All-on-Four Implants
The All-on-4 implant technique is a procedure that places four implants to support an entire arch of teeth. This innovative approach continues to gain popularity in the field of dentistry due to the advantage of eliminating the need for individual implants for each missing tooth. Maximizing the four implants gives patients the benefits of a complete set of teeth with enhanced stability and functionality.
The Benefits of Dental Implants for Seniors
Dental implants provide a comprehensive solution that addresses both the practical and aesthetic concerns associated with tooth loss in seniors. The significant benefits extend beyond oral health, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Increased Comfort
Unlike removable dentures, which are an inconvenience, dental implants offer a remarkable solution by fusing into the mouth’s structure. The implants mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, so patients can confidently enjoy their favorite foods without any worries.
Speech Improvement
Teeth greatly influence the way we speak. When teeth are damaged or missing, individuals are more likely to slur their words. Dental implants will fill in the gaps to improve clarity, pronunciation, and overall communication.
Prevents Adjacent Teeth Shifting
When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth tend to shift towards the empty space. This misalignment can cause bite issues, jaw discomfort, and alter the outward appearance.
Dental implants fill the gaps left by missing teeth. They then can support the surrounding teeth and prevent them from shifting.
Better Oral Hygiene
Dentures are difficult to maintain. They’re more likely to result in tissue damage and infections because they require special cleaning.
Implants are easy to maintain with regular brushing and flossing. Since they’re wonderfully easy to maintain, your patients will have a better experience and enjoy their smiles once again.
How Can You Help Your Patients?
Preventative dental care and treatments are the best way to maintain seniors’ oral hygiene and quality of life. When you comprehend the types and benefits of dental implants for seniors will allow you to provide better care to your patients.
Don’t forget that after the procedures are completed, regular follow-up appointments are crucial in the dental implant process. You will play a vital role in preventing potential issues and ensuring your patients’ new implants work properly.
