If you ask any medical professional how to live a long and healthy life, they would most certainly recommend exercise and adequate nutrition. They may not mention your oral health, but the status of your teeth can have a significant impact on your life expectancy! Tooth loss, in particular, is linked to an increased risk of death. Let’s take a look at why this is the case and how dental implants by Wicker Park Dental might be able to help you enjoy life to the fullest for as long as feasible.
Life Expectancy and Missing Teeth
Heart disease is the biggest cause of death in the United States, and studies show that persons who have lost five or more teeth by the age of 65 are more likely to develop the condition. These people are also more likely to develop diabetes and osteoporosis, both of which can shorten their lives. It’s also worth noting that seniors who have a complete set of teeth at the age of 74 are significantly more likely to live to be 100 than those who have lost teeth.
What accounts for the substantial link between tooth loss and a reduced life expectancy? Gum disease, which is a prevalent cause of tooth loss, could be one explanation. Gum disease germs can enter the circulation and influence other internal systems, raising the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other complications. Another reason could be that tooth loss and other health problems typically share risk factors like smoking and a poor diet.
Dental Implants: A Way to Live Longer?
Dental implants are usually referred to as “the next best thing to natural teeth.” That is certainly correct! This type of tooth replacement has a number of advantages, including the potential to help you live a better — and possibly longer — life.
Senior males with a weak bite are up to 84 percent more likely than those with a strong bite to die before reaching their mid-80s, according to research. When compared to regular dentures, dental implants give a much stronger bite force.
The ability to consume a nutritious diet. Some persons who have lost numerous teeth have a diet that is lacking in diversity, which can lead to nutritional inadequacies. You can eat almost everything with dental implants, including raw vegetables, crunchy nuts, difficult meats, and so much more.
A better social life. Both loneliness and social isolation have been linked to a higher risk of death. Dental implants may offer you the confidence you need to go on dates, grin in photos, and fully enjoy your interactions with others if tooth loss has harmed your social life.
Future tooth loss is less likely. Tooth loss is frequently followed by tooth loss. Dental implants may reduce the likelihood of you losing more natural teeth.
If you lose your teeth, your life could be cut short! Dental implants, on the other hand, have the potential to repair your smile while also potentially extending your life.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Maeng earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Neuroscience with honours from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In his industry, he has a lot of experience. He provides full dental implant services in collaboration with other local experts. Contact us at 773-819-7724 if you’d like to discuss your tooth replacement choices with our specialists.