As we age, our teeth may start to become loose and fall out. This is a natural process that can happen to everyone, but it can be especially difficult for pensioners who may find it challenging to finance their dental implant treatment. So, what are dental implants, and are they worth it for pensioners? Let’s take a look.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implant treatment is a groundbreaking option to replace missing teeth. This procedure consists of titanium roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone in order to hold replacement teeth in place. They are a popular treatment for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, disease, or old age.
Dental implant treatment is minimally invasive and can be customised to each patient’s needs and specific anatomy. Compared to traditional dental treatments, such as bridges or dentures, dental implants offer superior long-term results with less downtime for recovery.
Dental Implants Pros & Cons
Pros
Dental implants have a number of benefits.
First, they look and feel just like your own natural teeth.
Second, they allow you to eat and speak normally.
Third, they help prevent bone loss in the jaw by stimulating the bone.
Fourth, they do not require special care – you can brush and floss them just like your regular teeth.
Cons
However, there are also some downsides to dental implants.
First, they have a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options
Second, there is a very small risk of complications from surgery, such as infection or nerve damage.
Third, it can take several months for the implant to fully heal and bond with the bone before the replacement tooth can be placed on top of it.
Dental Implants Recovery Time
Our clinic’s experienced dentists can perform minimally invasive procedures of dental implants for pensioners, as well as offer sleep dentistry services.
After dental implant placement, most patients will experience moderate pressure pain and minimal swelling within the first 24 to 48 hours. Patients report that this is manageable with over-the-counter analgesics.
After the initial 48-hour period, any discomfort at the implant site typically subsides and is not a cause for concern moving forward.
At your follow-up visit, we will evaluate your healing progress and provide you with instructions on when it is safe to apply pressure to the implants while eating.
Can Dental Implants Benefit Pensioners?
Dental implants are a great choice for many patients; however, if you have had bone infections in the past or currently take medication that suppresses your immune system, then it may not be the best fit.
Before committing to the treatment, make sure to discuss with your dentist if dental implants are right for you and what other options might be available.
Do Pensioners Get Free Dental Care In Australia?
Yes, pensioners in Australia do get access to some free dental care. Depending on the state or territory you live in, as well as your income level and age, you may be eligible for certain subsidies or discounts on dental treatments.
It’s always a good idea to directly consult your local Centrelink office to find out if you could be eligible for any assistance with dental care.
These programmes have income and asset limits that must be met to qualify for their benefits. This provides elderly Australians with accessibility to much-needed dental health services while reducing treatment costs.
To conclude, particular health insurance plans provide financial support for dental implants cost, though the coverage is typically restricted. Thus, it’s advised that seniors examine their individual policies with their providers before making a decision regarding getting implants.
Are Dental Implants Safe For Elder People?
As we age, it’s typical to lose our teeth as a result of gum disease or natural expiration. This commonly leads people to find suitable options for teeth replacement.
Dental implants are an excellent option for elderly people to help strengthen the jaw bone and prevent further bone loss. The procedure is safe and can provide elderly people with long-term stability of their teeth.
Additionally, dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, so there’s no need to worry about any discomfort or embarrassment, like what happens with dentures.
When dentures become loose, it can be disheartening for elderly people and lead to a lack of self-confidence that makes them avoid socialising with their loved ones.
Here at our clinic, we are delighted to help you enhance the quality of your life by providing comfortable implants so that you don’t miss out on any more precious moments shared with family or friends.
When it comes to dental implants, age is simply no barrier! Implants are just as effective in an elderly patient as they are for a younger individual. Furthermore, even with bone loss, dental implants can usually be placed without the need for bone grafting.
Therefore, if you’re considering getting dental implant surgery, then make sure to check out our comprehensive pre-implant checklist first!
How Teeth Implants Improve Your Life
Transform your life for the better with dental implant treatment! Make everyday activities easier by eliminating pain and discomfort and restoring confidence in speaking and smiling. With dental implants, you can experience a higher quality of life today.
Patients report feeling inhibited by the embarrassment of ill-fitting dentures and unappealing teeth, hindering them from leading an active social life. Dental implants are able to restore your confidence so you can live a more vibrant lifestyle with improved self-esteem.
As a pensioner, you no longer have to worry about your teeth impacting the quality of time spent with your family and friends; this can be left in the past.
Conclusion
Dental implants for seniors who are missing one or multiple teeth due to injury, disease, or old age can be very beneficial. They offer many benefits, such as looking and feeling like your own natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak normally, enjoy your favourite food and maintain your oral health.
If you have more questions about dental implants for pensioners, contact Balmoral Dental Centre on (07) 3113 9789 today. Our dental clinic offers a wide range of services, with a special focus on dental implants, to help you lead an active life with improved oral health. You can access dental implants with flexible payment options. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Dental treatment
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/dental-treatments/
Dental Implant Grants and Cosmetic Dentistry Funding for Low-Income
https://www.dentaly.org/us/dental-financing/dental-implant-grants/
Chapter 4 – Dental Care
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/policies/manuals/Documents/pmm-4.pdf
Cost of dental care
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cost-of-dental-care