Ivan Darby
Professor Ivan Darby is Chair and Head of Periodontics at Melbourne Dental School and runs the School’s postgraduate periodontics training program. His research interests include implant outcomes, esthetics, regeneration and ridge preservation. Prof. Darby is editor of the Australian Journal of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry and President-elect of the Australian Society of Periodontology. He is also co-director of the ITI Education Week in Melbourne, former Communications Officer of the ITI Section Australasia and an ITI Fellow.
Articles
Feature Article
Tooth loss undoubtedly has a social and psychological effect on patients. Replacement of missing teeth using implants can provide a more stable outcome that greatly improves a patient’s confidence when smiling, speaking and eating. However, implant-supported restorations need regular review. Whilst survival and success rates are no lower in the elderly, there are some particluar issues. These include increasing medical comorbidity, polypharmacy, reduced salivation, difficulty in attending appointments and declining oral hygiene. In addition, patients may not be suitable for surgical management. Therefore, easier-to-maintain-and-manage implant solutions should be considered in elderly patients in case of complications.