Elderly Dental Implant Problems

In 2007, a news release from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry stated that as the population ages, dentists will see an increase in the number of elderly patients seeking dental implants, however, medical conditions experienced by the elderly require complex treatment.

History

• Dr. P. I. Brannemark invented the modern dental implant in the 1950s, however, dental implants trace back to ancient Egyptians who replaced missing teeth with shells and animal bones. In the September 2007 issue of "Journal of the American Dental Association," Dr. Ronald L. Ettinger states that despite the availability of dental implants in the past, dentists routinely prescribed dentures for elderly patients.

Types of Problems

• Diseases associated with aging can impact dental implantation. For example, because dental implants rely on healthy bones to provide a secure base, patients with osteoporosis may not be good candidates for dental implants. In addition, prescription drugs for diabetes, heart disease and arthritis can cause oral health problems.

Solutions

• To overcome problems associated with aging, Dr. Clark M. Stanford advises dentists to assess a geriatric patient's medical conditions prior to dental implant therapy and consult with his caregivers.