Dental implants. A role in geriatric dentistry for the general practice?

BACKGROUND: In the general population, the use of dental implants has become a management strategy for replacing missing teeth. As part of the treatment plan for the aging population, general dentists should consider this treatment modality in their practices. OVERVIEW: This study reviews specific issues concerning the aging population and tooth replacement therapies. Older people often desire to replace missing teeth, but they have complex medical, social, economic and resource issues that must be accounted for in their treatment plan. Dentists need to give careful attention to the patient-based assessment, diagnostic criteria and diagnostic steps to help the patient and family understand the strengths and challenges of each type of tooth replacement therapy. The author emphasizes the importance of careful evaluation and assessment of fixed versus removable implant-retained prostheses in the aging population. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: For many general dentists, dental implants have become an increasingly common treatment option for missing dentition. With the population becoming increasingly older worldwide, the general dentist will be confronted with patients who have complex medical and social histories who desire tooth replacement therapy. The rational delivery of this oral health care will assist in providing a high quality of life for these patients.