When most people think about living longer, they usually think about exercise and better nutrition. While these are certainly great ways to increase your longevity, many people may not be aware of how their oral health can contribute to their lifespans. Here’s a brief overview of the benefits of replacing lost teeth with dental implants and how they may help you enjoy more years in your life.
How Can Missing Teeth Affect My Life Expectancy?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and many studies have suggested that people who have lost five or more teeth by the time they reach 65 are at a higher risk of developing a cardiovascular condition. These individuals may also be more likely to develop issues that can lead to shorter lifespans like diabetes and osteoporosis. On the other hand, people who still have all of their teeth at age 74 are much more likely to reach the age of 100 than those who experience tooth loss.
This association between tooth loss and shorter life spans may be due to gum disease becoming more likely at later ages. While it’s well known that untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, these infections may also increase a patient’s risk of cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack and stroke and may lead to serious secondary infections like sepsis and pneumonia. It’s also worth noting that people who lose teeth at later ages are also more likely to have been indulging in unhealthy habits such as tobacco use or excessive alcohol consumption.
Can Dental Implants Help Me Live Longer?
Dental implants are considered the next best thing to natural teeth because they look and feel like the real thing. While traditional dental restorations like dentures and dental bridges can have trouble chewing many healthy foods such as nuts, fresh meat, and raw veggies, dental implants can handle them without problems. Missing out on such nutritious fare can make it difficult to get all the protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals the body needs to stay in good shape. Replacing lost teeth with dental implants can be a great way to improve your diet.
It can also be much harder to socialize if you are embarrassed about your smile after tooth loss, and loneliness and social isolation are both associated with an earlier death. Receiving dental implants can give you the confidence you need to smile proudly, meet people, and make friendships that last for years.
Tooth loss is a problem that tends to get worse since it’s easier to lose more teeth if you’ve already lost one or a few already. Restoring your smile with dental implants can be a great way to preserve your health and your natural smile so you can enjoy more healthy and happy years with your loved ones.
About the Practice
Baltimore Dental Arts offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Charlie Ward, Devon Conklin, Melody Ward, and Kevin Murphy, the staff takes pride in delivering effective treatments in a friendly and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact the office online or dial (410) 372-0202.