Caring for an Elderly Parent With Special Dental Needs
When to Consider Dental Implants
Joe Lawrence
A dental implant is a small post that is surgically implanted into the jawbone to provide sturdy support for an artificial tooth. Unlike removable dentures or dental bridges, dental implants feel and function like real teeth. They are comfortable, durable, and long-lasting. However, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, and deciding if they are right for you requires careful consideration. In this blog post, we will discuss the situations when you might need dental implants and what you can expect during the implant procedure.
Missing Teeth
The most common reason someone needs dental implants is that they are missing one or more teeth. A missing tooth not only affects the appearance of your smile, but it can also impact your ability to chew and talk properly. A dental implant is an excellent option to restore your smile and give you your confidence back. Dental implants can also prevent further damage to your remaining teeth by providing support to the jawbone.
Tooth Decay or Damage
Following tooth decay, if your tooth is severely damaged or broken, it may need to be extracted. In some cases, a dental implant can be an alternative to other restorative dental options, such as bridges or dentures. If you have a missing tooth or teeth due to severe decay or damage, consult your dentist to find out the best restorative option for you.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease, can cause severe damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the later stages of gum disease, tooth loss can occur. Dental implants are a great option for people who have lost teeth due to gum disease. However, gum disease must first be treated before a dental implant can be placed, as the gum must be healthy and healed for a successful implantation.
Trauma to the Mouth
Accidents and injuries can cause teeth to become loose or even fall out. If you experience trauma to your mouth due to a sports injury, car accident, or any other reason, consult your dentist to determine if dental implants could be the right solution to restore your smile.
Failed Dental Treatment
In some cases, previous dental treatments, such as bridges or dentures, may not have been successful. Dental implants are a potential solution for those who have had poor results from past dental treatments. Speak with your dentist about dental implant surgery as the best solution for your dental situation.
Dental implants are a great solution for many people who are missing teeth or have suffered from tooth decay, gum disease, trauma to the mouth, or failed dental treatment. If you are considering dental implants, talk with a dentist or oral surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate.
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Caring for an elderly parent tends to be tough enough without the added stress of dealing with dental implants or dentures. But, the prospect is not the end of the world—there are many things you can do to ensure that your parent's dental health is not compromised without having to spend a lot of personal time doing the care yourself. Between working with the right dentist, hiring a service provider for part time work, and giving your parent the tools he or she needs to care for his or her own dental health at home, you'll find that dental health for your loved one isn't so tough or time consuming after all. Hopefully you are able to get the support and information you need right here.