The answer to the question truly depends on a number of factors. The most important thing is about what your dad wants. For example, if he does not want any form of surgery at all, then a denture or perhaps a dental bridge may be instead a better option for him.
Whilst a denture would be suitable for him to regain confidence and smiling, there is a difference in terms of bite strength a dental implant has over a denture.
It would be possible to bite into an apple with a denture, however it would be far much easier if he had dental implants to eat harder food. Of course it is important to consider his diet and lifestyle to make this decision. What would be wrong is for him or the family to say that he only eats soft food or that he is old and hence why he should only have a denture.
This is a choice that the patient has to make. If he is unable to enjoy eating what he enjoys the most with a denture then perhaps he may have to transition to dental implants later. There are naturally some factors which might prevent dental implants from being an option.
In addition if it is front teeth, he is likely to need xrays or even a CT scan to assess remaining bone levels. The dentist will also ask him about his general health and asks if he smokes to see if there are any potential absolute or relative contraindications for dental implants.
Of course cost is another important factor. Singaporeans and PRs are very lucky to be able to use some Medisave towards the costs of dental implants. But all being said, I would love for my dad to be able to eat normally as possible so that he can enjoy his later years and especially smile at his grandchildren. sincerely Dr Samintharaj Kumar
