Board Certified Periodontist, Dr. Scott O. Kissel

Tooth Loss Affects 1 in 10 Americans Over 65 — Here’s Why Dental Implants Are the Gold Standard

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Insight from NYC Periodontist Dr. Scott Kissel

Tooth loss may seem like a cosmetic problem—but for many adults, it affects how they eat, speak, and even feel about themselves. Statistics show that 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 65 has lost all of their natural teeth. That’s nearly 17% of older adults facing full edentulism—often with real consequences for their health and quality of life.

At NYC Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Scott Kissel helps patients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and surrounding areas restore their smiles with advanced dental implant care. Experienced dentists and dental implant specialists regularly provide implant procedures for patients with a missing tooth or multiple teeth, ensuring high-quality and dependable care. Whether you’re missing one tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants are widely recognized as today’s gold standard for tooth replacement—and for good reason, as dental implants offer a reliable solution for both a missing tooth and the restoration of multiple teeth.

If you’re ready to explore your dental treatment options, schedule a consultation with our New York City periodontist by calling 212-702-9088. Dr. Scott Kissel helps patients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey explore their dental implant options.

dental patient smiling

What Causes Tooth Loss in Older Adults?

Tooth loss is rarely caused by a single issue. Over time, a combination of factors often leads to damaged or missing teeth. The most common causes include:

  • Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
  • Untreated cavities
  • Injury or trauma to the mouth
  • Tooth grinding (bruxism)
  • Poor oral hygiene or missed dental visits
  • Ill-fitting dentures that wear down natural teeth

What Makes Dental Implants Stand Out?

  • They replace the entire tooth, including the root. The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone, creating a stable foundation that mimics a natural tooth root. The abutment, which is placed during a minor surgery, passes through the gum tissue to support the final restoration.
  • They preserve jawbone and prevent bone loss. Just like natural teeth, implants stimulate the jawbone during chewing. This helps maintain bone density and facial structure over time, preserving facial dimensions.
  • They support surrounding teeth. Unlike dental bridges, implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support. That means no grinding down healthy enamel.
  • They look and feel completely natural. Custom-designed crowns are crafted to match your smile for seamless, lifelike results—no shifting or clicking like dentures. With advanced techniques, you may receive a new tooth or new teeth on the same day as your procedure.
  • They’re built to last. With proper care, dental implants can last decades or even a lifetime, making them a smart long-term investment in your oral health.

During the healing period, a temporary tooth or temporary prosthesis may be placed to restore esthetics and function until your final restoration—an artificial tooth or new artificial tooth—is attached.

Finding the Right Dental Implants in NYC

Dental implants come in several types, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. The most common are endosteal implants, which are surgically placed directly into the jawbone, and subperiosteal implants, which rest under the gum but above the jawbone—ideal for patients with less bone height. Depending on how many teeth you need to replace, you might opt for a single tooth implant, multiple tooth implants, or even full mouth dental implants for a complete restoration.

Your dental implant specialist near Brooklyn will help you determine the best type of implant based on the number of missing teeth, the health of your jawbone, and your overall oral health. Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options, including improved appearance, enhanced chewing ability, and better support for your overall oral health. 

Scaling and Root Planing

Schedule Your NYC Dental Implant Consultation Today

Ready to explore your options? Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or have been wearing dentures for years, dental implants can help you reclaim a healthier, more confident smile.

Call NYC periodontist, Dr. Scott Kissel, at 212-702-9088 to schedule your dental implant consultation. We proudly serve patients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey, and we’re here to help you smile with confidence for years to come.

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New York Periodontist Scott O. Kissel