Loosing teeth isn’t only a phenomenon children experience. In adults, however, it is not a momentous occasion celebrated by money under the pillow and tales of a fairy visiting.
While not commonly discussed, and normally classified as a normal byproduct of aging, the numbers are actually staggering when looking at the amount of adults who suffer from tooth loss. 70% of adults aged 35-44 have lost at least one tooth, and 25% of those 65 and older have lost all their permanent teeth. Those that experience tooth loss note increased rates of shame and embarrassment, especially in public situations.
Unfortunately, many people who face tooth loss feel alone and fear bringing it up with their dentist or other medical providers. This stigma is detrimental with the sole purpose of modern density being to restore a patient’s mouth to full, normal function. There are numerous options available to address tooth loss, which range from removable dentures to full dental reconstruction with implants.
How to start assessing your missing teeth
So, if you suffer from tooth loss, how many teeth do you actually need? There is no exact science to the number of teeth that you must have to function and lead a normal life. What really matters is the location of your missing teeth. Are you missing all your molars, or just a front tooth? Patient tolerance varies individual to individual. However, if you are missing several back teeth (those that are primarily used for chewing), eating could be become difficult. If you are noticing that daily habits are becoming difficult, such as your ability to eat and speak, it might be time to talk to your dentist about dentures or some form of prosthetics.
…Dentures?
Denture use in America is incredibly high, and subsequently have become more mainstream than you might realize. In 2000, there were 35.4 million denture wearers in the United States. That number is expected to balloon to 37.9 million by 2020 with aging Baby Boomers. Since there are so many users, dentures themselves have evolved to be more user friendly and mold more naturally with your mouth.
Most patients worry most about how their lifestyle could be potentially interrupted by the adoption of dentures. What happens when you go out to eat? Do you have to take them out at the table? The good news is that, yes, you can eat with them. It might take some time to get used to the feeling in your mouth, but with a little denture adhesive, most patients report they are able to eat all of their favorite foods normally.
Another common question is if you can sleep with them still in. While yes, that is possible, most experts recommend removing them to allow your gums and tissues time to rest. It also allows those areas to receive the natural antibacterial agents produced in saliva.
If you are facing tooth loss (or already dealing with it), there is no reason to be ashamed. Increasing longevity and compounding health factors all contribute to the increase in the number of people who suffer from adult tooth loss. The good news is that there are very real solutions that will help you return to your previous lifestyle. With advancements that allow for better fitting dentures and new styles that ensure that they’re discreet, no one will ever know that your smile is any less “yours!”
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