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Many people think they’re not candidates for dental implants because they’re too old. They should consider the case of Helen Payne, who had her final two teeth extracted and dental implants placed at age 97.
You are never too old for dental implants, as long as you are healthy enough for the procedure.
Courtesy Fox6Now.com
“Pretty lookin’ old lady”
Payne’s grandson performed the procedure. She had been living with just two teeth for a long time. She had not had a full set of teeth since 1936. In part her tooth loss was due to a lack of oral hygiene, since most Americans didn’t start brushing their teeth until the 50s. In addition, many dentists believed that root canal therapy led to poor health, probably due to the primitive antibacterial methods used. Instead of trying to save teeth, they were more likely to pull them.
She was only able to eat soft foods for years. These two teeth were badly decayed, and they gave her an odd appearance. So odd, she said, it made her think she was a “weird-lookin’ person.” While it made her laugh, it didn’t make her happy, so she called her grandson. The two had a laugh about it, but then arranged for the procedure.
In addition to her appearance, there were concerns about whether the poor quality of her diet was impacting her health. So the two set up a time to extract her final two teeth and replace them with dental implants.
A fully fixed implant bridge was placed on the implants, something similar to an All-on-4, although the information doesn’t tell us what system was used.
When Payne was waking up from the anesthesia, she invited many people to her 100th birthday party, a little bit in advance. But everyone was happy for the invitation. When she looked at herself in the mirror with her new teeth, she said, “Pretty lookin’ old lady,” and the room filled with laughter.
You’re Never Too Old for Dental Implants
If you are currently suffering with only a few unhealthy teeth or low quality dentures, you might benefit from dental implants. Age does not disqualify you from the procedure. If you’re healthy enough for surgery, you can get implants.
At Excellence in Dentistry, we offer many options for people seeking implants. While implant systems like All-on-4 often let you get a full arch of teeth without bone grafts, we can also perform grafts if you need them. Unlike most dentists, Dr. Kendall is trained in oral surgery, and can perform a sinus lift operation. We also offer IV sedation for maximum comfort, even for people with high anxiety about dentistry.
Considering Dental Implants in Anchorage?
If you are trying to decide about dental implants in Anchorage or surrounding areas, please contact Excellence in Dentistry today for an appointment. Call (907) 349-0022 today for an appointment with one of our implant dentists.
