Dental implants work for the aged just as well as they do for younger patients. When the patients’ health is good, patients in there 80’s and 90’s can have dental implants placed to improve their quality of life. There is no reason for anyone to suffer through their lives with missing teeth.  As each generation lives longer than the previous one, the longevity of the implant has proven to be a high yielding investment. Implants allow a patient at any age to eat better and effectively obtain proper nutrition

Dental implant candidacy does not depend on age, but upon the following basic requirements:

You must be in good health

You must have healthy gum tissue, free of periodontal disease

You should have sufficient bone present to support the implant

You should be committed to good oral hygiene

Although, age itself is not a contraindication for dental implants, advancing age is more closely related with health issues and medications which may compromise the integration of dental implants.

Older patients may lose more bone over time, particularly if the tooth/teeth have been missing for years. In fact, dental implants help maintain the patients current bone levels. Even patients with significant bone loss may still be able to take advantage of implants. The implants can be placed strategically to maximize available bone, or a preliminary bone augmentation graft surgery can provide supplemental bone at the dental implant site.

Dental implants are by far the best tooth replacement method available for patients who suffer from one or more missing teeth. The strength, longevity, convenience, and appearance of dental implants are unparalleled when compared to alternative options like dental bridges or dentures.

Ultimately, the best way to determine whether dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Barry Kaplan. He will examine your current oral health and help you move forward with a treatment plan for your missing teeth.