The Toothache That Changed My Life

Dental implants are not just for younger people. As a senior, you can benefit from them too, especially if you have dentures that constantly slip and bother you. Whether you're still working and want to maintain your professional appearance, have an active lifestyle and social life, or are just tired of bothersome dentures, you may find implants to be the ideal fit for you. Here are a few things to know about getting implants for your dentures.

Age Is Not A Factor

Age is generally not a factor when it comes to getting implants. People age differently, so it's more a matter of overall health. If you're in good general health, then your age shouldn't matter at all. Even if you have a medical condition such as diabetes, you may still be able to get implants as long as the condition is well-managed. Your dentist will determine if you're a good candidate for implants by taking a thorough medical history that includes assessing how well your medical conditions are managed, and if any of your medications would interfere with your ability to heal from the implant surgery.

Implants May Improve Nutrition And Health

Getting implants may actually help improve your health because you'll be able to eat a wide variety of foods again. You are at a high risk of poor nutrition when it hurts to chew because your dentures slip. You may even avoid certain foods because they pull your dentures out. Implants hold your dentures firmly in place, so it's just like having your real teeth back. You'll be able to chew meat, bite into an apple, and eat salads and raw vegetables again without irritation and slipping. This gives you the chance to broaden your diet to include a variety of nutritional foods to keep you more healthy as you age.

Your Self-Confidence May Benefit Too

One of the best things about getting implants is that you won't have to be worried about your dentures slipping when you're around other people. You'll feel more confident about speaking, since your dentures won't affect your speech. You may become more active and start going out to eat more often with your friends since you won't fear your teeth coming out while you're eating. If you are embarrassed that you have to wear dentures, then getting implants is a big help because when your dentures are held firmly in your mouth, no one even knows you're wearing them.

Implants could be a good investment for you if you are totally frustrated with your dentures or if you just want to maintain an active lifestyle as you age. Talk to your dentist about your options. Depending on your situation, you may be able to have implants put on your current dentures, which will save some money. You may also be a good candidate for mini-implants, which helps you avoid the need for a bone graft if you have bone loss in your jaw.

For more information, contact Sakuda Michael K DDS or a similar dental professional.