Living with tooth loss can be challenging in many ways. Not only do you have to deal with the physical effects of having missing teeth, but you also have to contend with the psychological effects.
Tooth loss can cause a great deal of anxiety and insecurity.
According to a study by the University of Iowa, people with missing teeth feel less attractive and are more self-conscious. They may also find it harder to socialise and be confident in their interactions.
Additionally, missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak properly, which can also lead to social isolation.
In short, tooth loss can take a toll on your mental health.
The link between oral health and mental health
There is a strong link between oral health and mental health. Poor oral health has been linked to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
Conversely, good oral health has been linked to good mental health. This is because the mouth is the gateway to the body. What happens in the mouth can affect the rest of the body and vice versa. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and stroke. Therefore, it’s not surprising that poor oral health can also have a negative impact on mental health.
A study by the University of Birmingham found that people with gum disease were more likely to suffer from depression than those without gum disease. Another study published in the journal General Dentistry found that people with anxiety disorders were more likely to have periodontal disease.
Emotional stages of lost teeth
There are different emotional stages that a person goes through when they lose their teeth.
The first stage is denial. At this stage, the person may not want to believe that they have lost their teeth and will try to ignore the problem. The second stage is anger. The person may be angry at themselves for losing their teeth or angry at the situation. The third stage is bargaining. The person may try to bargain with themselves or with others in order to get their teeth back. The fourth stage is depression. The person may feel hopeless and helpless about their situation. The fifth stage is acceptance. In this stage, the person has accepted that they have lost their teeth and is working on finding a solution.
If you are missing teeth, it is important to seek treatment from a dentist so that you can move on to the acceptance stage and improve your psychological well-being.
The impact of tooth loss on mental health
Tooth loss can have a major impact on mental health. As previously mentioned, it can cause anxiety, insecurity, and embarrassment. It can also lead to social isolation.
When you’re missing teeth, you may be hesitant to smile or even talk to people.
You may feel like people are judging you or that they’re looking at your teeth instead of listening to what you’re saying. As a result, you may start avoiding social situations altogether. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
How can dentists help people who are missing teeth?
Dentists can help people who are missing teeth in several ways.
First, they can provide dental implants, which are artificial teeth that are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Second, they can provide dentures, which are false teeth that are worn over the gums. Third, they can provide bridges, which are false teeth that are placed in the mouth to fill the space where missing teeth used to be. Finally, dentists can also provide cosmetic dental treatments, such as veneers and teeth whitening, to help people with missing teeth feel better about their appearance.
While there are excellent choices for replacing missing teeth, the expense of dental treatment remains a significant issue.
Dental implants are the most expensive option for replacing missing teeth, and they are not covered by most dental insurance plans.
Dentures and bridges are less expensive than implants, but they still require a significant financial investment. Cosmetic dental treatments, such as veneers and teeth whitening, are typically not covered by dental insurance plans either.
Due to the high expense of dental care, dental tourism is becoming increasingly popular, and it has become an excellent chance for those who have lost teeth.
Many people who live in countries with high dental costs have turned to dental tourism to save money.
Patients can benefit greatly from dental tourism, but it can be difficult to pick the right dental practice when travelling internationally.
That is why dental tourism organisations, such as Dental Hub Antalya, assist patients in locating the most appropriate clinics through a rigorous quiz.
Takeaway
Tooth loss can have a major impact on your mental health. If you’re struggling with the psychological effects of tooth loss, seek treatment as soon as possible. There are many different treatment options available, so there’s no need to suffer in silence. Your dentist will be able to help you choose the best option for your needs and provide you with the support you need to restore your smile and your confidence.
Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
