Dental implants for older adults depend on health, not age alone

Older adults do not automatically lose the option of receiving dental implants simply because of their age, according to medical professionals in South Korea.

Before planning treatment, dentists should assess the patient’s general health, existing medical conditions and medications. Chronic illnesses such as diabetes need to be properly controlled. Patients taking osteoporosis drugs, anticoagulants or antiplatelet medication should provide their medical team with accurate information.

The type and purpose of osteoporosis medication, along with the patient’s overall health, can affect the treatment plan. Dentists must also examine the amount and condition of the alveolar bone that supports an implant. Long-term tooth loss or periodontal disease can reduce the available bone.

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Implants are not decided by age alone.

Insufficient bone does not necessarily make an implant impossible. After evaluating the bone’s amount and shape and the condition of the gums, clinicians may recommend preliminary treatment such as a bone graft before placing the implant.

Oh Min-seok, a dental chief at Seran Hospital, said some older patients view implants as too burdensome because of their age. “Implants are not decided by age alone,” he said. “Doctors should determine whether treatment is possible and how extensive it should be based on the patient’s overall health and oral environment.” He advised people who have lost teeth not to delay a dental examination, because prolonged tooth loss can cause bone loss and movement or tilting of neighboring teeth.

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Doctors should determine whether treatment is possible and how extensive it should be based on the patient’s overall health and oral environment.