I know dental issue are about the last things on a caregivers mind and i don't need to list the reasons why but now my 88 yr old family member is losing tooth after tooth despite attempts to save them with rooth canals and crowns would not wear a partial. Has been able to eat fairly well with just a few teeth on the bottom but is losing more. can an elderly person still eat with only five teeth on the bottom. not steaks, but things like bread, vegetables, soft meat. does the gum become hard and act as a chewing surface? looking for answers from those who have experienced this problem and anyone with experience with implants or mini implants with dentures attached, assuming you can get them to the numerous appointments? thanks.
The pain wasn't worse than what he was already experiencing with the rotten teeth. He is eating better than he had been for years before. After a few weeks, he was no longer experiencing pain in his mouth, and it had been years since that was true.
You'll have to make sure her health is good enough for this to be an option, but from where I sit -- even if my Dad died tomorrow and never got to the six-month mark, he would have spent his money in a way that made him more sociable (he was embarrassed by his teeth before) and it improved his nutrition because he was willing to eat more. Good luck, whatever you decide.
If your dad's health can stand it and the money is there, I'd ask about mini-implants (cheaper) to keep in the dentures. If the dentist/oral surgeon says mini won't do for him, you could get a second opinion or go for full implants.
Good luck with this. I hope he gets some help. Getting rid of tooth pain and being able to eat with comfort is huge.
Take care,
Carol