The most common myth in dentistry is that you will lose your teeth one by one as you get older. Tooth loss or edentulism is a debilitating and irreversible condition. This is also described as the final marker of disease burden for individual oral health.
How teeth loss affects your quality of life?
Our teeth are supported by the gum and jaw bone. After extraction of teeth, jaw bone loss is an ongoing process. This happens due to resorption of residual ridge causing height of alveolar bone and size of denture bearing area to reduce. Losing teeth significantly affects the facial appearance. The changes include protrusion of mandibular lip and chin.
Most common causes of teeth loss
- Dental caries (Decayed teeth)
- Periodontal diseases (Gum diseases)
Treatment options for missing teeth
Implants
Implants are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth. However, implants are not option for everyone. Because implants require surgery, patients should be in good health overall. Patients either must have adequate bone to support implant, or be able to have surgery to build up the area needing the implant. Patients also should be ready to commit to a daily oral care routine and to regular dental visits.
Fixed Bridges
This is a restoration that fills the space where one or more teeth have been lost. A fixed bridge is bonded or cemented into place – only dentist can remove it. Placing a bridge usually takes more than one dental visit. On your first visit, your dentist prepares the teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge will later be attached to these teeth.
Removable partial/full dentures
A removable partial denture can easily be taken out of the mouth for cleaning. Partial dentures usually have replacement teeth fixed to a plastic base that matches the colour of your gums. The plastic base may cover a metal framework. Partial dentures often have some form of clasp that attaches to your natural teeth. Removable full dentures is an option for replacement of all missing teeth.
Conclusion
Now you know that losing one or more teeth is never okay. You might experience impaired chewing function, altered facial appearance, eating disorders and also decreased self-confidence in social setting. So, you might consider visiting your beloved dentist soon to improve it!
