How Effective are Dental Implants After 70?

Men and women over the age of 70 often wonder if they are eligible for dental implants and, in simple terms, whether treatment will be “worth it.” Because everyone’s situation is unique, the answer will vary from patient to patient. In general, however, there is no age limit for dental implants. At Advanced Smiles in Frisco, TX, distinguished dentist Dr. Ernest De Paoli believes that patients deserve to have a strong, healthy, beautiful smile at every age. Below, we’ll take a closer look at what to consider when contemplating dental implants in your 70s or older and how implant-supported restorations can help you regain your comfort and confidence once again.

When are dental implants necessary?

Dental implants are titanium posts (or screws) that are surgically placed into a patient’s jawbone. In most cases, a custom restoration – like a crown, bridge, or implant-supported dentures – is then connected to the implanted screw. Although preserving your natural tooth root is almost always the recommended course of action, there are certain situations when it may not be possible to save the tooth, or the tooth is already missing. In these cases, a dental implant can be placed to help preserve the structure of the jaw and stimulate healthy tissues and bony material. Some of the most common reasons for placing a dental implant include:

• Missing tooth
• Tooth was knocked out or lost
• Damaged or decayed tooth had to be extracted

Am I too old for implants?

If you are in your 60s, 70s, or older, you may be asking yourself if getting dental implants is really worth it at your age. Many patients are surprised to learn that the answer is often, “Yes!” Dental implants offer a number of benefits for patients of all ages, but older men and women may have even more to gain by choosing dental implants and implant-supported restorations in place of traditional dentures or bridges, which can be a nuisance to keep up with and are often less durable and less reliable compared with other options.

To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, Dr. De Paoli will perform a thorough examination and review your health history. For older patients, it is important to carefully consider whether there is enough healthy, intact bone structure to support the integration of an implant. With modern technology, even elderly patients who have lost some bone mass due to osteoporosis and natural aging often still qualify for dental implants.

Why should I get dental implants at my age?

If you are already in your 70s, you may think that dental implants would be wasted on you, but think again! Dental implants and implant-supported restorations not only can help to restore a beautiful and more youthful smile, but they can also get rid of the hassle and worry that you may be experiencing with loose dentures, weak crowns, or temporary/removable restorations. With implant-supported restorations, you can finally get the confidence you deserve and a healthy, strong smile that can last a lifetime.

It's never too late to love your smile with dental implants in Frisco, TX

Now more than ever, people are continuing to invest in their health and beauty at every stage of life. If you’re on the fence about getting dental implants because of your age, we can help. For more information on the benefits of dental implants in your 70s and beyond, call Advanced Smiles to schedule your consultation and examination with top Frisco, TX dentist Dr. Ernest De Paoli today.