As you get older in your life, you may end up with some missing teeth. It may seem like those who are younger than you are getting dental implants as a reliable solution, but what about you? You may wonder if age is a factor that can influence your candidacy for them, but it might not! Many patients in their 40s, 60s, and even 80s have chosen this tooth replacement option. Keep reading to learn why you might still be able to get them.
So, Are Older Adults Candidates for Dental Implants?
In short, many older adults are still eligible to get dental implants. Age doesn’t really determine whether or not you can get them, but rather, your oral and overall health do. That’s because they are placed into your jawbone and fuse with it. This is what helps give them reliability and stability that many people enjoy.
If you don’t have any oral health issues and your bone density is still good, then you may be eligible to get this tooth replacement option. Even if you aren’t right away, your oral surgeon can talk to you about what you need to do to become a good candidate or if another type of procedure would be best for your smile and goals.
How Can Older Adults Still Benefit from Dental Implants
Many older adults can and do benefit from dental implants! One of the main reasons that can make them a great candidate is that those over 60 are more likely to have experienced tooth loss. This can happen from natural aging, but also from injury or gum disease (to name a few). Since you have kept up with your at-home dental routine, you may have an easier time caring for this replacement option properly.
When you have missing teeth, your jawbone will start to shrink over time. This is a normal process as your body will reallocate those minerals to other places that need them, but dental implants help prevent this. Your bone density and facial structure will be preserved! Since they are fused to your jaw, you may find yourself having an easier time eating your favorite foods without worrying about anything slipping out of place.
While getting dental implants later in your life may have seemed like a dream, it may just be able to come true! They are a great option to give you a full smile that you feel comfortable in, and let you laugh and eat more confidently with those around you.
About the Practice
At Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial, & Implant Surgery, you are in the hands of board-certified oral surgeons who want the best for you and your oral health. We understand how missing teeth can cause some troubles, so we are here to help you fill in those gaps with dental implants. Through a thorough consultation, you can learn if you’re a good candidate, regardless of whether you are an older patient. If you want to learn more about this tooth replacement option, schedule an appointment or call our Reston office at (703) 736-1640.