The quick answer: are implants suitable for pensioners?
YES — in more than 90 % of cases. What matters is not your age on paper, but your general health and the condition of your jawbone.
At Koderman we have placed implants in patients aged from 30 to 84. The oldest received All-on-4 (fixed teeth within 24 h) and, after 3 years, still eats nuts normally.
Why pensioners often do not even decide
Brutally honest — most older people who would benefit from implants do not opt for them. The reasons:
- "I'm too old" — a myth (we live another 15–20 years after 70; an implant lasts 15–20 years — it pays off)
- "I already have ZZZS (Slovenian national health insurance) for the denture" — true, the ZZZS covers dentures, not implants. But a denture is not the same as fixed teeth (more in the section below)
- "The price is too high" — payment in instalments + tax relief + a 10 % seniors' discount break down the price
- "Fear of the procedure" — with local anaesthetic + sedation (if needed) it is completely painless
Removable denture vs. dental implants — a brutal comparison
Many pensioners wear a removable denture because "you just get used to it". The reality:
| Criterion | Removable denture | Dental implants (All-on-4) | |----------|----------------|------------------------| | Stability when chewing | Moves, can fall out | Fixed, like natural teeth | | Food you can eat | Soft (soups, cooked vegetables) | Everything (nuts, apples, meat) | | Speech | Can click, uncomfortable | Natural | | Hygiene | Removing, soaking every night | Brushing like natural teeth | | Effect on the jawbone | The bone disappears in 5–10 years | The implant preserves the bone | | Aesthetics | Visible when smiling, can shift | Natural, like your own teeth | | Price | 800–1.500 € (replacement after 5–10 years) | 5.500–6.500 € (20+ years) |
After 10 years: you have already replaced the removable denture twice (2.000–3.000 € in total) and on top of that you have lost bone. Implants: one cost, fixed teeth, preserved bone.
Contraindications in older people
Implants are not recommended in cases of:
- Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c above 7) — get it under control first
- Bisphosphonates (e.g. Fosamax, Bonviva for osteoporosis) — risk of osteonecrosis. Consultation with your GP is MANDATORY
- Active oncological therapy (radiotherapy, chemotherapy)
- Anticoagulants at full dose (Marcumar, Eliquis) — an adjustment is needed
- Severe osteoporosis of the jawbone — a subperiosteal implant may be needed (an alternative)
We establish all of this at the free initial consultation with a 3D CT scan.
Special benefits for pensioners at Koderman
For patients over 65 we offer:
- 10 % discount on all implants and prosthetics
- Payment in instalments over up to 24 months interest-free
- Help in claiming the tax relief (up to 33 % cost refund)
- Patient-friendly planning — fewer sessions, shorter waiting times
- The option of sedation for anxious patients at no extra cost
Example 1: One missing side tooth (60-year-old patient)
- One implant + crown: 900–1.040 €
- With 10 % discount: 810–936 €
- Duration: 3–6 months
- Result: eating nuts again, instead of a wobbly denture
Example 2: A whole toothless upper jaw (70-year-old patient)
- All-on-4: 5.500 €
- With 10 % discount: 4.950 €
- Instalments over 24 months: 206 €/month
- With tax relief (approximately): effectively 3.500 €
- Duration: 3 months (fixed teeth within 24 h during the waiting period)
Example 3: A patient without bone (75-year-old patient)
- Subperiosteal implants: 9.900 €
- With 10 % discount: 8.910 €
- Instalments: 371 €/month over 24 months
- The only solution without bone reconstruction
Real experiences of patients 65+
"I spent 25 years with a removable denture, in water every night. After the age of 70 I decided on All-on-4. The best decision. I eat normally again." — Patient, 72 years old
"I had 8 missing teeth and could not eat meats. After 4 months I ate a steak for the first time in 10 years." — Patient, 68 years old
"I was afraid of the procedure because I am 79 years old. With sedation I barely felt anything; the next day I was at home." — Patient, 79 years old
Frequently asked questions
Will it hurt more because of my age?
No. With local anaesthetic the pain is the same as for a younger patient. After the procedure there is usually mild swelling for 2–3 days.
What if I have diabetes?
Controlled diabetes (HbA1c below 7) is not a problem. Important: do not smoke, good hygiene, regular check-ups.
What if I take osteoporosis medication?
Bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Bonviva) are a contraindication. Before deciding, consult your doctor and the implantologist.
How long will an implant last in a 75-year-old?
An implant lasts 15–20+ years — entirely sufficient for your life horizon.
Can I get All-on-4 if I have only a little bone?
With moderate deficiency — yes (with bone augmentation). With severe deficiency, subperiosteal implants are an alternative.
Should my son/daughter bring me?
If there is sedation, yes. Otherwise no — you can come on your own.