Tooth loss is a common condition among elderly patients, often caused by aging, periodontal disease, or untreated dental damage. Missing teeth not only affect the ability to eat but also impact overall quality of life. Therefore, permanent dentures can be an effective solution to enhance oral health and well-being in elderly individuals.
A study by drg. Herijanti Amalia Kusuma, S.U., Sp.Pros.(K) on Elderly Patient Satisfaction with Complete Dentures at the Prosthodontics Clinic of RSGM Prof. Soedomo Yogyakarta found that dentures, including overdentures, provide significant benefits for elderly patients. Another study by the same researcher, Overdenture as an Alternative for Lower Jaw Complete Dentures in Elderly Patients,, highlights that overdentures offer greater stability and comfort compared to traditional removable dentures, especially for the lower jaw.
Permanent dentures, such as dental implants, provide superior stability compared to removable dentures. With permanent dentures, elderly patients do not have to worry about their dentures shifting while eating or speaking. This improves not only comfort but also self-confidence, particularly in social interactions.
In addition to stability, permanent dentures help prevent further damage to oral structures. When teeth are missing, the jawbone tends to shrink due to the lack of stimulation. Dental implants help maintain jawbone stimulation, minimizing bone loss. This is especially important for elderly patients, as preserving facial structure can help them maintain a youthful appearance.
From a health perspective, permanent dentures also make oral hygiene easier for elderly patients. Unlike removable dentures, which require soaking and separate cleaning, dental implants can be cared for just like natural teeth, requiring only regular brushing and flossing. This makes oral care more practical, especially for elderly individuals with physical limitations.
With these benefits, permanent dentures not only improve oral function but also enhance the overall quality of life for elderly patients. For those considering this solution, consulting a specialist dentist is the first step in determining the best treatment suited to their needs and health conditions.
Solutions such as permanent dentures or overdentures contribute to better oral health in elderly patients, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Ensuring optimal oral health and quality of life for elderly individuals. Good Health and Well-being – Ensuring optimal oral health and quality of life for elderly individuals. By supporting chewing ability, speech, and social interaction, permanent dentures enhance elderly patients' well-being, in line with global efforts to promote good health and well-being for all age groups.
References
drg.Herijanti Amalia Kusuma, SU., Sp.Pros.(K), Elderly Patient Satisfaction with Complete Dentures at the Prosthodontics Clinic of RSGM Prof. Soedomo Yogyakarta, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/90549
drg.Herijanti Amalia Kusuma, SU., Sp.Pros.(K), Overdenture as an Alternative for Lower Jaw Complete Dentures in Elderly Patients, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/12255
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
