Is Tooth loss, dentures, and edentulism a disability?  Many dentist think so as reported by experts in the literature.  Common problems with tooth loss and dentures are:

1)       Associated with disorders related to mal-nutrition and digestive problems.  The inability to chew food properly relates to poor food choices, inability to digest food properly

2)      Disabilities related with speech disorders and impediments.  Imagine speaking and having your teeth out!  Many people with full dentures don’t even wear their lower teeth.  And the looseness associated with both sets of dentures coming loose is a condition many have to adapt to.  Think also of the bulk of the dentures on the roof of the mouth, or the bulk of denture material constricting the tongue motion.

3)     Disabilities related to socialization—Fear of denture teeth falling out and eating in public is a very real concern for millions of denture wearers.  Any people with even a couple of teeth missing and having that “hillbilly” look is horrify to many people.  Tooth bridges, dental implant, full and complete dentures rectify these concerns most of the time—but all have limitations.

4)     Disabilities relating to esthetics—this could be an entire article in itself.  Besides the ‘hillbilly look” and the stigma of lower socio-economic status.  Teeth loose also causes the front teeth to eventually and progressive flare out.  This is commonly associated with the ‘dumb look.”  Look at how comedians portray this!

5)      Neurological problems.  A recent article in Neurology magazine wows correlation between denture paste and neurologic problems.

6)      Lower mobility—Yes—there are additional correlation between edentulism and tooth loss and mobility.  Poor nutrition probable plays the greatest threat here.

There are limits in all tooth replacements.  Certainly the advantages and disadvantages to all types of replacements such as dental crowns, dental bridges, partial and full dentures.  Dental implant crowns, dental implant bridges, and implant supported or retained dentures are more advanced tooth replacements options.  The implant option is more costly, but has the advantage of comfort and greater security.
Dr. Gibbs shares this information for his patient and people in the Glen Ellyn, Wheation area (Chicago area). He may be located contacted at 603-858-8800, or at his Glen Ellyn dentist website or Google page for Glen Ellyn Wheaton dentist.

• Psychological Challenges and Social Concerns of Tooth Loss-Dental Implants & Tooth Loss
• Health Hazards of Tooth Loss and Long-Term Denture Use
• Losing Teeth Emotional Aspect of Dentures, Dental Implants, and Missing Teeth
• The Hidden Dangers of Missing Teeth & Dentures–The Helath Importance of Replacing Missing with Dental Implants
• Nutrition Problems & Associated Medical Concerns–Dentures, Partial Dentures, Dental Implants