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One of the most common misconceptions regarding teeth is that it’s natural to lose them as you age. In truth, tooth loss or edentulism is almost always directly caused by gum disease or trauma. Natural teeth, when cared for properly, can last a lifetime even as your mouth changes as you grow older. Few people know this, which is precisely why many elderly patients tend to just ignore the problem until it starts to affect their day to day lives. However, beyond difficulty in speaking or eating, chronic headaches, jaw pain and altered facial and bone structure, studies show that losing teeth also has a significant impact on mental health.
Dental Health Linked to Mental Health
In a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, lead author Georgios Tsakos stated that tooth loss is an early marker of mental and physical decline in people aged 60-74. In a study involving 3,166 adults over the age of 60, researchers concluded that participants who had complete edentulism performed about 10 percent worse in memory and walking speed tests.
Another research published in the Journal of Alzheimer's also reveals that older people with poor oral health or gum disease may be at greater risk of developing dementia. Bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream through everyday activities such as eating, chewing and toothbrushing. Bacteria in the blood can then be carried to other parts of the body, including the brain. Once it reaches the brain, it may trigger an immune system response that kills brain cells and changes the brain. It could then cause symptoms such as confusion and deteriorating memory, which is typical in Alzheimer’s disease.
Meanwhile, other studies have also shown that people with dental problems are also likely to develop other mental health issues like anxiety disorder and depression. Having missing teeth causes people to have low self-esteem, which in turn leads to depression and self-neglect. Over time, as their dental health declines, their mental health suffers as well.
How Dental Implants Can Help You
Dental implants are just one of the most effective solutions to tooth loss in Houston because it is a permanent replacement. It is fused directly to the bone in a way that mimics natural tooth root, giving you a smile that feels and looks natural. It requires a relatively low-maintenance hygiene routine, doesn’t cause gum pain, and maintains the health of your jawbone. More importantly, it helps you avoid developing mental health issues from living with missing teeth.
Unsure whether getting dental implants is the right option for you? Visit your dentist and find out if you would make a good candidate for the procedure and learn of other treatments available to you.
Sources:
Study: Tooth Loss Linked To Slowing Mind And Body, Colgate.com
How Dental Health Relates to Physical and Mental Health, GettingHealthier.com