Current Consensus of Dental Implants in the Elderly—What Are the Limitations?

Current Oral Health Reports (2020)

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review examines the restricting factors based on the current situation of implant treatments in elderly people and describes how they should be handled. In addition, it is suggested to establish an environment in which the oral cavity of the patient can be managed at the end of treatment with an implant card detailing the implant treatments provided, while anticipating the patient’s aging.

Recent Findings

Implant treatments now account for a large proportion of dental prosthetic treatment options. Meanwhile, aging is accelerating globally, with Japan at the top of the list. This has resulted in an increase in the number of implant patients who are elderly and require care and who have systemic problems. Furthermore, with the growing number of people in need of nursing care, there is a growing need to care elderly people who have received implant treatments in the past, and there are various issues in handling such cases. It is also important to properly evaluate the systemic conditions, conduct less-invasive surgeries using appropriate types of implant system based on estimated life expectancy, and provide treatments using prosthetic devices that can be easily managed and modified.

Summary

The systemic conditions and aging of the oral cavity need to be taken into consideration regarding the risks of implant surgery. As to the worsening of maintenance condition, changing to a removable superstructure as well as awareness-raising activities should be examined. In addition, we suggest that policy measures be taken to address some issues regarding training, manufacturers, and medical insurance. We hope that implant treatments will continue to contribute to patients as we head toward becoming a super-aging society.