In the United States, nearly 1 in 5 adults aged 65 or over have lost all of their teeth. Losing teeth negatively impacts a person’s quality of life, especially if the teeth are not replaced immediately. Seniors most commonly use dentures as tooth replacement options, but these days dental implants are gaining popularity due to their incredible health and social benefits.
Dental Implants are not an option for seniors. That is a common misconception. Dental Implants are available to people of all ages. At Dental Implant San Diego, we have performed thousands of successful senior implant surgeries. Keep reading for more information about dental implants for seniors.
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Dental Implants are never too old.
We have already discussed this, but it is worth repeating. Dental implants can be placed at any age. They are equally successful in older and younger patients alike. Smoking, untreated gum disease, certain medications, or radiation therapy can affect your candidacy for implants-but age is not one of them.
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Dental Implants provide greater comfort than dentures
Dentures are a popular tooth replacement option, but they are not as sturdy or secure as Dental Implants because they don’t replace the tooth root. Dentures can move around in the mouth when chewing or yawning, causing physical discomfort and embarrassment.
Conversely, implants are surgically attached to the jawbone, where they bond with it, creating a stable and solid foundation. Dental implants will not slip. When you laugh, smile, eat and chew, they stay in place just like natural teeth.
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Dental Implants aren’t affected by osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones, affecting about 20% of women over 50 and 5% of men over 50. Women over 50 and men over 50 are more likely than women to suffer from osteoporosis, a disease of the bones. In some cases, seniors with osteoporosis are told they cannot have dental implants, but in most cases, this is not true.
Implants can be placed despite osteoporosis. Dr Cortes is a highly skilled and experienced implant specialist who offers a range of options, including bone grafting and root canal therapy depending on the individual’s needs. We recommend that if one dentist has told you that you’re not a candidate for dental implants, you get a second opinion with Dr Cortes at San Diego Smile Center.
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Dental implants maintain facial structure.
Teeth and jaws are symbiotic. Jaw muscles help hold teeth in place, and chewing keeps them stimulated. Through this stimulation, the brain sends nutrients to the area so that the jaw and teeth stay nourished and strong.
A loss or extraction of a tooth causes the jawbone to atrophy because it is not stimulated. Six months after extraction, the tooth begins to resorb into the body. The shape and structure of the face change with further atrophy of the jawbone.
A dental implant is the only tooth replacement solution that prevents or slows jawbone loss. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone by replacing the tooth root with a titanium post. In other words, you maintain your face’s shape and structure and continue looking like you do.
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Dental Implants enhance the quality of your life.
Dental implants restore your smile and give you solid and functional teeth so you can eat the foods you love. Many seniors resign themselves to the physical and social discomfort of missing teeth or dentures.
In contrast, dental implants allow you to laugh, smile, and speak confidently without experiencing discomfort. Think again if you thought your days of good food, freedom, and laughter were behind you! Dentures can help restore not only your smile but also your sense of well-being.
In addition, dental implants require the same essential maintenance as natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist every four to six months.
In addition to avoiding sugary drinks and opening packages with your teeth, you’ll also want to keep up a healthy diet and exercise routine. The better your oral health is, the brighter your smile will be. Oral health is directly connected to your overall health, so you should take care of them.
San Diego Smile Center – Dental Implants in San Diego
San Diego Smile Center is a top implant dentistry practice. Whether you are a young or an old patient, we can help! One of the best Dental Implants san diego, Dr Paulo Cortes, is committed to patient education, comfort, and satisfaction.
In your consultation with Dr Paulo Cortes, he will perform a thorough examination, educate you about your options, and help you make a conscious decision about your oral health. We can help you make an appointment with Dr. Cortes by calling (858) 566-0842.