Can Dental Implants Make You Live Longer?

Continual advancements in dentistry make it possible to preserve natural teeth for longer than ever; however, tooth loss is still prevalent. At least 35 million Americans have lost all of their real teeth. If you have an incomplete smile, you know firsthand the effects it has had on your self-esteem and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, the complications of missing teeth don’t end there. Research shows your severity of tooth loss can affect your life expectancy. Dental implants might be the secret to preserving your smile and ensuring you live a full life.

Missing Teeth and Life Expectancy

Your dentist can learn a lot by examining your mouth, especially if you have missing teeth. Research shows a direct link between your oral and general health. Your dentist can tell if you suffer from certain chronic diseases or genetic conditions, like cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis. One study found people who lost 5 or more teeth before the age of 65 were more likely to have several health conditions known to shorten life expectancy, like diabetes and heart disease.

Your overall wellness can suffer from tooth loss, too. People who have lost several teeth struggle to maintain a balanced diet. They must eliminate certain foods because they are too difficult to chew. Over time, this can lead to potentially life-threatening nutritional deficiencies.

With tooth loss being a predictor of decreased longevity, it’s more important than ever to replace any missing teeth. While you have more options to fill the spaces, dental implants provide unmatched benefits for your health and wellness.

Dental Implants and Your Health

Traditional prosthetics only recreate the portions of teeth above the gum line. While they are effective, they don’t stop bone loss in the jaw, and they have limitations when it comes to performance. Implant-retained solutions differ because they replicate the entire tooth structure, including the root.

Dental implants are strategically placed into the jawbone to serve as roots. They will stimulate new bone growth in the jaw through a process called osseointegration. Your dental implants support your restorations, which are connected via abutments for the next best thing to your real teeth. You’ll regain 70% of your natural biting force to ensure you maintain a nutritious diet.

Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and can last for decades with the right aftercare, like committing to your oral hygiene. With your mouth being the gateway to your general health, a healthier smile will support your wellness to reduce your risk of common conditions that can affect your lifespan.

While you can’t turn back the clock, you can prolong your lifespan through a healthy smile. Don’t lose another minute dealing with the consequences of missing teeth.

About Dr. Steven Kendrick

Dr. Kendrick earned his dental degree at the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry before continuing his training at the Misch International Implant Institute. He has completed extensive qualifications in many advanced services, like dental implants. If you’re ready to invest in a complete smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.