There is a somewhat common misconception that beyond a certain age you are not eligible to receive dental implants, and must use dentures instead. Though it's true that sometimes, a health condition can prevent you from receiving dental implants, this is usually determined on a case-by-case basis and is not necessarily related to age. Only a dentist or orthopedic surgeon can tell you if your body can accept dental implants.
Whether or not you can receive dental implants depends on your medical history. Dentists can use your medical history to determine if the procedure will be successful, or if you're like to get any infections during the process.
Another very important factor to be considered before dental implants are installed is the patient's healing ability. Implants need to be joined directly with the bone in order for the operation to be successful. The titanium implants and the bone of the jaw need to be fused with one another, which requires for the area to heal rapidly and correctly. In most cases, this will not be an issue, but for those who suffer from conditions that can affect healing, such as diabetes, there may be complications.
Once the implants are installed, they need to be properly cared for in order to function properly. This means that regular checkups will be necessary, to ensure that there are no problems. Because they require constant maintenance, dental implants are most useful for those who keep up on their oral hygiene.
For those who have used dentures in the past, dental implants make for a welcome change. They provide a permanent fixture, needing no glue. They are much more comfortable to use, and they both feel and look more natural. Orthopedic surgeons also work with their patients to ensure that the implants match the color of existing teeth.