How Tooth Loss Affects Your Health

Tooth loss can happen for many reasons, whether it be periodontal disease or trauma. In fact, gum disease is one of the world’s leading causes of tooth loss among adults.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, over 64.7 million Americans suffer from a mild or severe case of gum disease – with that number increasing to almost 70.1% in adults 65 years old and over. Although gum disease is the leading factor of tooth loss, it’s not the only influence. Some reasons may include high blood pressure or diabetes.

Osteoporosis plays into tooth loss for adults over the age of 35. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, osteoporosis causes the deterioration of the bones in your body. It typically develops in a gradual process and without causing any symptoms. A diagnosis of this disease will be made by your doctor with bone density tests.

Although the risks for tooth loss seem grand, they can be controlled and eliminated with proper treatment. Below you will find what can increase your risk for tooth loss and what can be done to remove the obstacles.

Health Risks Associated With Tooth Loss

Poor Nutrition: Some foods that contain large amounts of sugars, acids, and carbohydrates can cause the tooth to decay. According to the organization Mouth Cancer, half of all mouth cancers are due to poor nutrition. See below for healthy foods that assist in lowering oral cancer.

  • Fruit – 48% lower risk

  • Vegetables – 34% lower risk

  • Vitamin C supplements – 24% lower risk

  • Calcium supplements – 36% lower risk

  • Caffeinated coffee – 39% lower risk in 4 cups/day

  • Green tea – 20% lower risk

Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): Bruxism is the habit of grinding your teeth. This habit usually manifests when sleeping. As a result, there are consequences that happen to implants ranging from excessive damage to the crown causing the osseointegration process to fail. During recovery, the implant can’t undergo an excessive amount of pressure because it can inhibit implant recovery.

Not Brushing Teeth (Bad Oral Hygiene): People who don’t brush their teeth are at risk of contracting heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This is due to inflammation that forms in your body because of oral bacteria. When the bacteria that’s in your mouth gets into your internal organs, your liver reacts by producing a reactive protein that contributes to more inflammation. This can lead to heart disease and other bodily issues.

Research shows that 1 in 5 Americans do not brush their teeth twice a day.  Brushing your teeth helps eliminate plaque buildup and strengthen the gums. If you choose a toothpaste that has whitening effects, it can help to gradually remove stains on your teeth as well. Also, brushing the tongue assists in eliminating bad breath. 

Smoking: Smoking is the main culprit of bodily complications that can have detrimental effects to your oral health. For example, smoking tobacco can cause halitosis or chronic bad breath. It can also stain your teeth while increasing the risk of contracting oral cancer. Another negative side effect attributed to tobacco is its ability to weaken your immune system, which slows the process of healing (wounds, scars, and dental issues).

The Psychological Effects Of Missing Teeth

A person who consistently smiles is naturally more approachable and exudes a genuine confidence. According to Know Your Teeth, nearly 20 million teeth are extracted each year leaving many people to deal with the psychological effects of a less than perfect smile.

A survey conducted by the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) revealed that 86% of people listed social embarrassment as a problem related to tooth loss. They also reported that over 50% of patients with tooth loss have less social involvement than those with a complete smile.

With so many innovative dental advancements available dentists now have various options to offer patients who have experienced tooth loss.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants are an exceptional way to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution that avoids having to wear partial or complete dentures. For many people, missing teeth can lead to an unattractive smile, embarrassment from loose dentures and more. The decision to replace missing teeth with dental implants is an worthy investment in your oral health and appearance.

This option also provides a natural tooth look than dentures because they’re artificial teeth that are attached directly to the jawbone. Due to their unmatched stability and longevity, dental implants are by far the best long-term tooth replacement option. 

Let Us Reinvent Your Smile

As mentioned above, there are many risks that can happen as a result of tooth loss. Dr. Dale Spadafora will be happy to sit down with you and answer any questions you may have in regards to tooth loss prevention and dental implants. Call today to schedule your consultation.