03
Jul
How Dental Implants For Seniors Improve Quality of Life
Tooth loss can lead to a lot of frustration. First of all, it affects your smile if you have a gap. But also, a missing tooth sometimes makes it necessary to change your eating habits. With Dr. Bryce Westmoreland at Wes Park Family Dentistry in Perry, Georgia, you can replace your tooth (or multiple teeth) with dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are made with three parts:
- A biocompatible titanium post that serves as the root for your new tooth
- An abutment that attaches the crown to the post
- A porcelain crown to finish off your visible tooth
The titanium post fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. The result is a tooth replacement that works exactly like a natural tooth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. There, they serve as a sturdy foundation for your replacement tooth. Over time, the titanium post becomes a part of the jaw. This prosthetic tooth, once completed, is secure, a permanent option you never have to worry about again.
How Many Teeth Dental Implants Replace?
Dental implants are a versatile solution. They can be customized to replace any number of missing teeth.
- Single tooth replacement: This is used to replace one missing tooth.
- Implant-supported bridge: Can replace multiple teeth in a row by using two implants for support.
- Implant-supported dentures: Replace an entire dental arch using four or more implants as anchors.
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Are Dental Implants a Good Option for Seniors?
For seniors, dental implants are an excellent option. To qualify, you need to have a healthy mouth. Tooth decay in your remaining teeth or gum disease must be treated before you can begin the implant process.
You must also have enough bone mass in your jaw. If not, Dr. Westmoreland can perform a bone graft to help build your bone. Mini implants are also an option in this scenario.
What Is the Dental Implants Process Like?
Your process will begin with a consultation and treatment plan, where Dr. Westmoreland will evaluate your mouth using X-rays and discuss your health history. Then, the team will create your customized treatment plan.
- Under local anesthesia or sedation, Dr. Westmoreland places the titanium post in your jawbone. The post takes three to six months to heal and fuse with the bone.
- Once that’s done, you return to our office to have your abutment placed.
- Now, you’re ready for your final crown and any restoration, such as a bridge or implant-supported dentures.
How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implant?
One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they’re a permanent option, just like a natural tooth. So, keep practicing good oral hygiene. And most importantly, schedule appointments with Dr. Westmoreland every six months for regular checkups.
How Can I Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants For Seniors?
At Wes Park Family Dentistry, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland and his team will provide expert guidance and compassionate care throughout the dental implant process. Visit the office at 233 Wes Park Dr, Perry, GA 31069, to learn more, or call (478) 488-3561 today to schedule a consultation.