Extensive tooth loss can affect more than just your appearance – it can negatively affect your overall health as well. Studies have revealed that severe tooth loss can reduce life expectancy by increasing the risk of health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and other medical conditions. Luckily, dental implants can not only rebuild your smile, but they can significantly minimize these risks. Read along to learn more about dental implants can help you live longer and enjoy a better quality of life overall.
The Relationship Between Life Expectancy and Number of Teeth
It may surprise you to learn that the number of teeth you keep as you get older could indicate your life expectancy. Recent studies have revealed a relationship between tooth loss and health issues, such as chronic disease, genetic conditions, nutritional intake, and lifestyle choices. For instance, people who’ve lost five or more teeth by 65 years old are more likely to have heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis – all of which can significantly reduce life expectancy. Furthermore, one study found that people who have a full set of teeth when they are 74 years old are more likely to reach the age of 100. Because of that, it’s safe to assume that the number of teeth in aging humans can impact longevity and life expectancy.
How Can Dental Implants Improve Your Life?
Since dental implants function very similarly to natural teeth, they can actually help you live longer. With that in mind, here are a few incredible benefits of this tooth-replacement solution:
Prevent Further Tooth Loss
A dental implant is designed to replace an entire missing tooth, from the root up to the chewing surface. Because of its unique placement inside the jawbone, it helps promote the growth of new bone. Once the titanium post has successfully integrated with the jawbone, it stimulates it to prevent its deterioration and the loss of remaining teeth.
Lowered Risk of Gum Disease
One of the advantages of dental implants is that they don’t require special care beyond standard brushing, flossing, and rinsing. However, practicing good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent issues like gum disease. Severe periodontitis can increase your risk of several health problems, so by taking proper care of your gums and implants, you can keep your mouth and body safe!
Regained Ability to Eat a Healthy Diet
With dental implants, you’ll be able to eat almost any food you want. That means it’ll be easier for you to stick to a well-balanced diet full of nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy products, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. By making better dietary choices, you can lower your risk of multiple health conditions.
Improved Quality of Life
Not only can dental implants rebuild your smile, but they can restore your confidence as well. You’ll be able to eat, smile, and say cheese without worry! And believe it or not, that boost of self-esteem can significantly improve your health and quality of life.
As you can see, dental implants offer many incredible benefits. If you’re ready to improve your health and enjoy a fully functioning smile once again, ask your dentist how you can get started on your journey. You won’t regret it!
About the Practice
At Kirlough Family Dentistry, we strive to make every appointment as enjoyable, stress-free, and satisfying as possible. Our team uses the latest technologies and techniques to ensure you receive the best treatment possible. If you have missing teeth, we offer dental implants to help restore your smile and confidence. Not only that, but they can help you live longer as well! Visit our website or call (440) 234-2445 to schedule a consultation today.