Losing a tooth can be traumatic on multiple levels. There may be physical pain associated with the loss, then there could be a change in chewing food, and of course, there is an altered appearance. Research studies actually show that tooth loss can cause intense emotions and distress.
In many cultures around the world and for many years, tooth loss was seen as just a part of normal life. But with the advances of modern prosthodontics, now people expect to have a full set of teeth, and when they don’t, they can feel a disconnection. They can feel others may associate their tooth loss with a neglected mouth or old age, of course, neither which are necessarily true for tooth loss.
Although poor oral hygiene, smoking, high sugar consumption, and drug use all play a role in tooth loss, there are many people who lose a tooth in an accident or while playing sports (think hockey players). Sometimes all it takes it just biting down on a hard surface.
A Common Confidence Problem
Tooth loss is more common than you may think. In fact, more than 100 million Americans are missing at least one pearly white. While some people have no problem with the loss and don’t seek treatment to replace it, there are many others who suffer emotional distress. To them, tooth loss means a disconnection from him or herself and his or her body. And that can lead to a dramatic drop in confidence and happiness.
Beyond just concerns of physical appearance, people who lose a tooth may worry about eating, specifically eating in public. Or smiling. Or kissing someone. Everyday activities could become harder, only leading to more distress and a lower quality of life.
At Advanced Prosthodontics, we take the psychological effects of tooth loss in Bethlehem seriously, and we want to help patients restore not just their teeth, but also their confidence. Taking care of oral health is a good way to take care of your whole self. For questions on dental implants or to schedule an appointment, call (610) 865-4222 today.