Question 1

Is it safe for a 70-year-old to get dental implants in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Published research shows implant success rates of 90-95% in patients aged 65-80, only marginally lower than younger cohorts (95-97%). Age alone is not a contraindication. At Picasso Dental Clinic, senior patients undergo comprehensive medical screening including blood tests, blood pressure monitoring, and medication review before any surgical procedure. The clinic has treated thousands of patients aged 65+ from 62 countries.

Question 2

Do dental implants take longer to heal in older patients?

Accepted Answer

Osseointegration (bone bonding) typically takes 3-6 months regardless of age. However, patients aged 65+ may experience healing at the slower end of this range, particularly those with controlled diabetes, osteoporosis, or taking certain medications. Picasso Dental plans for a 4-6 month osseointegration period for senior patients and schedules follow-up reviews accordingly.

Question 3

Can I get dental implants if I take blood thinners?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Current clinical guidelines recommend continuing anticoagulant therapy (warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran) for routine dental implant surgery, as the bleeding risk from stopping medication outweighs the risk of minor post-surgical bleeding. Picasso Dental's protocol includes pre-operative INR testing for warfarin patients, and local haemostatic measures during surgery.

Question 4

I have osteoporosis. Can I still get dental implants?

Accepted Answer

Osteoporosis alone does not prevent dental implant placement. Studies show comparable implant success rates in osteoporotic patients not taking bisphosphonates. However, if you are taking bisphosphonate medication (alendronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid), additional assessment is required. Oral bisphosphonates carry a low risk (0.01-0.04%) of osteonecrosis of the jaw; IV bisphosphonates carry higher risk (0.8-12%). Picasso Dental requires full medication disclosure and may consult with your physician.

Question 5

What is the best dental treatment for seniors who have lost all their teeth?

Accepted Answer

All-on-4 fixed dental bridges are the gold standard for fully edentulous seniors. Four strategically placed implants support a full-arch fixed prosthesis, restoring complete chewing function and aesthetics. At Picasso Dental, All-on-4 costs USD $5,750-$8,500 per arch — compared to $20,000-$30,000 in the US and $25,000-$35,000 in Australia. The procedure achieves 95.8% implant survival in patients aged 65+.

Question 6

How long should I plan to stay in Vietnam for dental treatment as a senior?

Accepted Answer

For implant-based treatment, plan 10-14 days for the surgical phase (allowing 2-3 rest days and a follow-up appointment). For non-surgical work like crowns and dentures, 5-7 days is typically sufficient. Picasso Dental recommends seniors arrive 1-2 days before treatment to acclimatise and recover from jet lag. A return trip 4-6 months later is needed for implant-supported final restorations.

Question 7

Does Medicare or NHS cover dental treatment abroad?

Accepted Answer

Standard Medicare (Australia), NHS (UK), and Medicare (US) do not cover dental treatment performed overseas. However, Australian patients with private health insurance extras cover may claim a portion of overseas dental costs. UK patients paying privately at home receive no NHS subsidy regardless of location. US Medicare does not cover dental at all. Travel insurance with dental coverage is recommended for emergency situations during the trip.

Question 8

Should I bring a companion when travelling to Vietnam for dental work?

Accepted Answer

For patients aged 70+, or those undergoing sedation or extensive surgical procedures (multiple implants, All-on-4, full-mouth rehabilitation), a travel companion is strongly recommended. The companion can assist with transport to and from the clinic, manage medications, help with meals during recovery, and provide emotional support. Picasso Dental can arrange accommodation for both patient and companion, and the companion is welcome at all appointments.