Replacing Missing Teeth In Catford

More Than Just a Matter of Appearance

Dr O Dadashian

When you lose your teeth, getting dentures or other replacements might seem like it's just about being able to smile confidently again. However, recent research reveals that replacing missing teeth could actually help you live longer and healthier. Let's explore why prosthetic rehabilitation - the dental term for replacing missing teeth - matters more than you might think.

Understanding Prosthetic Rehabilitation

Prosthetic rehabilitation includes various ways to replace missing teeth:

• Complete dentures (for all missing teeth)

• Partial dentures (for some missing teeth)

• Dental implants

• Bridges

The Life-Changing Impact

Research spanning up to 24 years has shown some remarkable findings about people who replace their missing teeth:

1. Survival Advantage

• People wearing dentures showed better survival rates than those who didn't replace their teeth

• One study found a dramatic 42% reduction in mortality risk for denture wearers

• This improvement remained significant even after accounting for factors like:

  - Age

  - Smoking

  - Drinking habits

  - Physical activity

  - Overall health

  - Diet

2. Quality of Life Benefits

• Better nutrition through improved chewing ability

• Enhanced social confidence

• Improved speech

• Better psychological well-being

• Maintained facial structure

3. Health Benefits

Wearing dentures or other tooth replacements can help reduce risks of:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Digestive problems

• Social isolation

• Depression

Why It Makes Such a Difference

Replacing missing teeth helps in several ways:

1. Better Nutrition

• Ability to eat a wider variety of foods

• Better chewing efficiency

• Improved digestion

• Access to more nutritious diet options

2. Social Benefits

• More confidence in social situations

• Better speech clarity

• Maintained facial appearance

• Improved self-esteem

3. Physical Health

• Maintained jaw bone structure

• Better bite force and chewing ability

• Reduced strain on remaining teeth

• Preserved facial muscles

Making the Decision

When considering tooth replacement:

1. Don't Delay

• Earlier replacement generally leads to better outcomes

• Prevents bone loss and facial changes

• Maintains eating habits and nutrition

• Preserves social confidence

2. Choose the Right Option

• Discuss different solutions with your local Catford dentists

• Consider your lifestyle and needs

• Think about long-term benefits

• Factor in maintenance requirements

3. Maintain Your Prosthetics

• Regular dental check-ups

• Proper cleaning and care

• Timely adjustments or replacements

• Good oral hygiene

The Research Evidence

Studies involving thousands of participants have shown that:

• Only 3-13% of people with missing teeth don't wear dentures

• Those who wear dentures tend to live longer

• The benefits are seen across different age groups (52-105 years)

• The positive effects last for many years (studies followed patients for up to 24 years)

Taking Action

If you have missing teeth:

1. Schedule a dental consultation

2. Discuss replacement options

3. Consider the long-term health benefits

4. Don't let cost be the only factor

5. Think about quality-of-life improvements

Remember: Replacing missing teeth isn't just about looks - it's an investment in your overall health and potentially your longevity.

References:

1. Gupta A, Felton DA, Jemt T, Koka S. Rehabilitation of Edentulism and Mortality: A Systematic Review. J Prosthodont. 2019;28(5):526-535.

2. Koka S, Gupta A. Association between missing tooth count and mortality: A systematic review. J Prosthodont Res. 2018;62(2):134-151. 3. Romandini M, Baima G, Antonoglou G, et al. Periodontitis, Edentulism, and Risk of Mortality: A Systematic Review with Meta-analyses. J Dent Res. 2021;100(1):37-49.