Dental Implants for Senior Citizens
Dental Implants for Senior Citizens
As we get older, our bodies change in many ways that can affect our well-being and overall health. One area that may experience a decline in function is our mouth as the absence of teeth may lead to challenges eating, speaking, or even smiling. Luckily, dental implants are a viable solution for seniors to restore their smiles and boost their quality of life.
If you are a senior citizen contemplating dental implants, you are not alone. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, approximately 40% of American seniors aged 65 and up have lost all their natural teeth. Seniors are increasingly turning to dental implants to improve their quality of life.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth. Implants can support a single tooth, a group of teeth (such as a bridge), or even a full set of dentures. With dental implants, seniors can once again enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling, enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.
Full arch replacement
Fewer implants means the procedure is less invasive. A functional set of teeth is placed the day after your surgery.
Double board-certified oral surgeon
Dr. Eberle is one of less than 100 doctors in the world with his double board-certified credentials.
Affordable payment options
In many cases, full mouth reconstruction with dental implants is more affordable than restoring and/or replacing each individual tooth. We have affordable payment plans for most budget types.
Why Dental Implants Are the Preferred Choice for Seniors
Senior Dental Implants offer several advantages over dentures and traditional implants.
Greater Stability
Traditional removable dentures rely on natural suction or adhesive to stay in place, but they can still slip or move around. On the other hand, All-on-4 implants are anchored in the jawbone, providing a solid foundation for the dentures they support. This means that the implant-supported teeth will never be at risk of slipping or moving out of place.
Healthy Jawbone and Young Appearance
Compared to removable dentures, All-on-4 implants provide a superior solution for missing teeth as they replace not only the crown but also the root, ensuring good oral and bone health. Additionally, they stimulate the jawbone, preventing it from weakening and leading to further tooth issues.
Best Long-Term Solution
Typically, it is advisable to replace removable dentures every five to seven years. However, our All-on-4 dental implant dentures are crafted from zirconia, which is the strongest material available. They can last decades with appropriate care and regular dental checkups. Additionally, your titanium implants have the potential to endure for a lifetime.
Seniors Can Benefit From Dental Implants in Many Ways
Dentures vs Dental Implants for Seniors
If you have missing teeth or gaps between your teeth, you can choose to wear the traditional “removable” dentures or get a permanent solution with fixed dental implants. Although removable dentures are cheaper, they only provide about 20% to 30% of the functionality of natural teeth. They can also slip and cause damage to your gums, which can lead to pain and infection. Additionally, they lack the ability to maintain your bone density and structure, which can lead to a sunken face and premature aging.
Dental implants are a type of tooth replacement that looks and feels just like your natural teeth. Unlike dentures, which can be taken out, dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone and become a permanent part of your mouth. They are designed to match your existing teeth and are meant to last for many years without needing to be adjusted or replaced. At first, it may feel strange to have an implant in your mouth. Over time, as you get used to it, it will feel just like a natural tooth.
Choosing the Right Dental Implant Specialist for Senior Citizens
Selecting a qualified and experienced senior dental implant specialist is critical for older patients seeking dental implant treatment. When choosing a provider, seniors should prioritize professionals who have a proven track record in implant dentistry, extensive experience working with older patients, and a compassionate approach to geriatric oral care.
Our surgeon, Dr. Nathan Eberle, is among a select few elite surgeons in the country to have achieved degrees in both oral and maxillofacial surgery as well as plastic surgery. In addition, he is double board-certified and has received numerous prestigious awards and honors because of his superior level of training, experience, and skill. He has extensive experience providing implants and bone regeneration for elderly patients.
Both locally and nationally known, Dr. Eberle is considered one of the best surgeons in the region and has the expertise to not only provide complex smile rehabilitation but also cosmetic treatments tailored to your unique needs Give us a call today or book a complimentary consultation online to learn more about why we are the leaders in dental implants and surgery.
Steps to a Lasting Smile for Our Senior Patients
The dental implant procedure is a well-established and safe process. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Consultation
If you're considering getting dental implants, we want you to know that we take a personalized approach to your treatment plan. We'll start by assessing your dental and medical health during a consultation with our specialists in Naples, FL. We'll also take detailed 3D images of your mouth and jaw to ensure the best possible outcome. During your consultation, we'll explain your treatment plan and answer any questions you may have. We can also go ahead and schedule your implant surgery, assuming you are ready. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you'll love showing off.
2. Dental Implant Surgery
Your appointment will begin by receiving sedation or anesthesia in a gentle manner. Our oral surgeon is trained in both IV sedation and general anesthesia, ensuring a relaxing experience. If you are in need of treatments such as tooth extractions or bone grafts, Dr. Eberle can typically take care of those during the same visit. The dental implants will then be strategically inserted into your jawbone. We only use the best dental implants from top suppliers to ensure the results lasts. Following the placement, you a new tooth or temporary bridge will be fixed to your implants. In such cases, you will leave our office with a functional set of new teeth on the same day as your preparation.
3. Final Smile
It can take a few weeks for dental implants to heal. During this time, the implants will bond with your jawbone and create a strong foundation. Once your implants heal, you'll get customized teeth that match the color of your natural ones. These teeth will look and function like your natural teeth, so you can enjoy eating and speaking with confidence. By taking good care of your implants and remaining natural teeth, you may never have to worry about replacing a missing tooth again!
Surgical Excellence for Senior Citizens at Our Naples Specialty Studio
Are you having trouble eating or sleeping because of a damaged or missing tooth? If yes, you don't need to suffer anymore - our board-certified surgeon in Naples, FL, can help you. We offer a range of surgical options at our state-of-the-art studio to relieve your pain and restore your oral health. Our team at the Florida Dental Implant Institute has years of experience in oral surgeries and uses advanced technology to make your treatment as comfortable and safe as possible. We truly care about our patients and will do everything we can to help you smile again.
Are Dental Implants the Right Choice for You?
Rediscover the joy of a confident smile. With our state-of-the-art dental implant solutions, you're not just getting a procedure—you're investing in a lifetime of laughter, conversations, and moments shared. Whether you're looking to replace a single tooth or achieve a complete transformation, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
While many patients qualify for dental implants, conditions like bone loss can lead to rejection by some dentists. However, with our experience and advanced equipment, we accommodate patients with severe bone loss, including those suitable for zygomatic implants.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are dental implants?
A dental implant comprises three key components - a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. Designed to mimic the function of natural tooth roots, dental implants offer bone support and a stable base for a single dental crown, bridge, denture, or full-arch prosthesis.
Are dental implants better than dentures?
While more expensive than traditional dentures, dental implants will be much more long-lasting, durable, comfortable, and natural-looking. Think of them as an investment rather than an expense since compared to dentures, dental implant patients need fewer visits to their dentist for follow-ups in the future. Implants also prevent bone loss and cosmetic aging, which is common in denture wearers. If price was not a barrier, dental implants would almost always be the top choice for people with missing teeth. For most patients, the additional upfront expense is more than recouped over years of better oral health.
Are dental implants a good option for senior citizens?
Yes, dental implants are just as viable for seniors as for patients of other age groups. We specialize in dental implants for seniors and can advise them on their best treatment options based on their individual health needs.
Does age determine the success of dental implants?
Age alone does not determine the success of dental implants. It is a fact that as we grow older, we tend to be more prone to different health issues that might affect our oral health. Despite this, there is a misconception that dental implants are not appropriate for elderly individuals due to their age. The suitability of dental implants for a patient depends on their oral health condition and general health (including their bone density). Age itself does not determine their eligibility.
Does osteoporosis affect the success of dental implants for seniors?
In most cases, osteoporosis does NOT affect the success of dental implants. Many people are surprised to learn that patients with osteoporosis have a similar healing time as younger patients with average bone density when it comes to dental implants. However, advanced cases of osteoporosis may compromise the volume of the jawbone. In these cases, bone grafting may be necessary to ensure that there is enough healthy bone to support the implant.
How old is too old for dental implants?
As we get older, our teeth become more susceptible to damage, and the likelihood of losing them increases. However, each patient experiences aging differently. We provide dental implant assistance to people in their golden years and their teens. Whether you're 18 or 80, age should not hinder you from seeking the dental implants you need. At the Florida Dental Implant Institute, we assess each patient individually to determine the best solution for them, regardless of age.
How we price
We offer our patients a detailed treatment approach and help them with cost-effective payment solutions
Single Tooth Dental
Implants
A single implant(s) can support a crown to replace just one missing tooth, which is significantly more durable and natural than traditional bridges.
Starting at
$95 Per Month.
Multiple Tooth Dental
Implants
Occasionally, a patient is missing more than one tooth but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth. In this case, two or more implants are placed, and the crowns are attached, leaving the teeth intact.
Starting at
$195 Per Month.
Full Mouth Dental
Implants
Patients who need to replace a full upper and/or lower set of teeth can now opt for full mouth implants. Our oral surgeon will place 4 implants and then attach a full arch of teeth.
Starting at
$300 Per Month.
Have Questions?
Fill out the form and our team will get back to you within 24 hours. For a faster response, open the chat window or call us at the number below.
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Don’t Be a Stranger! Get in Touch
The Florida Dental Implant Institute is a specialized dental center that exclusively deals with dental implants and oral surgery. Our team has over 50 years of experience providing solutions for complex restorations and implant dentistry, ensuring that every step of the process is handled with perfection and care. Proudly serving the communities of Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Lehigh Acres.
