Understanding Edentulism and the Hope of Dental Implants
Tooth loss, known medically as edentulism, can significantly impact your life, affecting not just your smile but also your ability to chew, speak, and even your overall health. While traditionally addressed with dentures or bridges, edentulism can now often be effectively treated with dental implants, offering a more permanent and functional solution. This article will explore edentulism, its consequences, and how dental implant treatment can restore your oral health and improve your quality of life.
Edentulism is a condition characterized by the loss of some or all of one's natural teeth. It may be
Partial Edentulism, the loss of one or several teeth, while some natural teeth remain.
Complete Edentulism is the loss of all teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, or both.
What Causes Edentulism?
Several factors can contribute to tooth loss, including:
Periodontal (Gum) Disease: This is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Gum disease is an infection that damages the tissues supporting the teeth, ultimately leading to bone loss and tooth mobility.
Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can progress, leading to severe tooth damage and eventual extraction.
Trauma: Accidents, work and sports injuries may result in tooth loss or damage beyond repair.
Medical Conditions: Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes and osteoporosis, may increase the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can contribute to plaque buildup, increasing the risk of both gum disease and tooth decay.
Smoking, in all its forms, has a strong correlation with increasing the risk of gum disease. This includes cigarettes, vaping and cannabis.
Consequences of Edentulism
The impact of edentulism extends beyond aesthetics:
Difficulty Chewing: Missing teeth compromise your ability to chew food properly, leading to digestive issues and nutritional deficiencies.
Speech Impairment: Tooth loss can affect pronunciation and clarity of speech.
Bone Loss: When teeth are removed, the jawbone that supported them begins to resorb (shrink) over time. This may lead to changes in facial structure and a "sunken" cheek appearance.
Shifting Teeth: The remaining teeth may shift and drift into the spaces left by missing teeth, leading to misalignment and further complications.
Reduced Self-Esteem: Missing teeth can negatively impact confidence and self-image. Loss of self confidence negatively impacts a patient's social life and psychological well-being.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: The changes in bite and jaw alignment may contribute to TMJ problems, causing pain and discomfort.