If dentures have been a part of your life for many years now, you may be wondering if dental implants in Harrisonburg are a viable option. After wearing prosthetics that require frequent replacements and stricter maintenance, the idea of receiving permanent teeth may sound more appealing, but is it possible? A local dentist explains that you’re never too old to enjoy the benefits of dental implants and what you can do about making the switch.
Is There an Age Limit for Dental Implants?
The short answer is no, there is no age limit for receiving dental implants. The truth is that someone well into their 80s or 90s can successfully undergo implant placement and enjoy an improved quality of life as a result.
Over time, denture-wearers can begin to experience further weakening of the jawbone because there is nothing there to stimulate this area of the mouth. As a result, these prosthetics become uncomfortable to wear because changes occur to a person’s facial shape, resulting in irritation, soreness, and the need for a replacement.
This is why many dentists find patients wanting to make the switch to dental implants. Not only do they offer permanence, but they improve oral health, provide greater functionality and a stronger bite force, and they can remain in place for decades or longer with proper care.
What is the Process for Switching from Dentures to Dental Implants?
To successfully make the switch from dentures to dental implants, a patient must undergo a thorough evaluation by their dentist. During this visit, they will check the bone, gum tissue, and facial structure to determine the durability of the jawbone and the overall health of the soft oral tissues. Also, they will review any medications that are currently being taken to ensure there will be no adverse effects or problems once the implants are firmly in place.
If the jawbone is not dense enough for stable implant placement, it may be necessary for the patient to undergo a bone graft, as this will help strengthen the jawbone and create a solid foundation to fully support the posts and appropriate restoration.
Once the patient has healed from the bone graft, they will move forward with receiving their implants. While the recovery phase can take a bit longer as opposed to a younger patient, the dentist may choose to wait an additional month or so before placing the implant-retained denture. This ensures the implants are properly fused with the bone and surrounding tissues.
Elderly patients can expect to experience some soreness and discomfort in the few days following surgery; however, with over-the-counter medication and consuming soft foods, they are just as likely to heal with great success.
When it comes to dental implants, these restorations know no age. If you’re looking to make a change and improve your oral health, go ahead and invest in this life-changing solution.
About the Practice
At Harrisonburg Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our team of dental professionals and staff work together to provide all our patients with personalized and effective care. When looking to replace missing teeth, we believe in offering available treatments that can improve smiles of all ages. This is why you will find that dental implants are a highly recommended and popular treatment method for young, middle-aged, and elderly adults. If you are wanting to make the switch from dentures to a more permanent, longer-lasting solution, contact us at (540) 432-6616.