Edentulous

Edentulous refers to the state of not having any natural teeth. This condition can occur due to various reasons such as dental disease, trauma, or ageing. Edentulous individuals often require dentures or other forms of dental prosthetics to replace the missing teeth.

Causes

The primary causes of edentulism include:

• Periodontal Disease: This is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
• Tooth Decay: Also known as dental caries, this is a breakdown of teeth due to acids made by bacteria. It can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss.
• Trauma: Accidents or injuries can cause loss of teeth.
• Ageing: As people age, their teeth can become more susceptible to disease and decay, leading to tooth loss.

Treatment

The treatment for edentulism primarily involves replacing the missing teeth. This can be achieved through:

• Dentures: These are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be complete (for full edentulism) or partial (for partial edentulism).
• Dental Implants: These are surgical fixtures placed in the jawbone, which then fuse with the bone over time. They serve as a strong foundation for replacement teeth.
• Dental Bridges: These are false teeth anchored in place by neighbouring teeth. They can be a good option for individuals missing one or a few teeth.

Impact on Health

Edentulism can have a significant impact on an individual's health and quality of life. It can affect the ability to eat certain foods, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. It can also impact speech and facial appearance, leading to potential self-esteem and social interaction issues.

See Also

• Oral Health
• Dental Care
• Dental Prosthetics

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