The Emotional Toll of Missing Teeth

Emotional Toll of Missing Teeth

According to numerous studies, dentofacial abnormalities – such as missing teeth – often experience a wide range of detrimental emotional effects. Examples include avoiding social situations, being the subject of social stigmas, stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem levels.

The smile is very important. It is a means of personal recognition, connecting with others, part of one’s overall appearance, a characteristic perceived by others, and an important part of how we perceive ourselves.

The teeth help us eat, help us speak, and have a large impact on how we connect with those around us. If we are missing teeth, it can have a huge emotional impact.

Appearance

In most instances, the teeth are the first thing noticed by others. If we are missing teeth, our entire appearance is negatively impacted. Not only does this impact how we feel about ourselves, but it also impacts how those we associate with perceive us.

Most of the time, people perceive those with missing teeth in a negative light. They may feel as if the person does not take care of themselves, does not care about how they look, or that they are “poor” and cannot afford dental corrections.

While these perceptions are not always true, they are there. As a result of the appearance being detrimentally impacted, the self-esteem is also impacted.

Health Consequences

Those of us that have missing teeth are likely to suffer from a multitude of health consequences. This is often due to the fact that it is more difficult to chew. As a result, only soft foods are consumed and less fresh fruits and fresh vegetables are eaten.

“Easier” foods are chosen because they are more convenient. Furthermore, many of the “easier” foods are processed and/or unhealthy.

This could lead to gastrointestinal problems, nutritional deficiencies, and higher levels of infections. Being in poor health could result in stress, anxiety, and depression.

Embarrassment

Most people that suffer from missing teeth will experience some degree of embarrassment. They may elect to avoid interacting socially with others, becoming intimate, or even going out in public – unless absolutely necessary.

They feel insecure and may have even been subjected to vocal opinions and comments from others on their missing teeth. This can cause the person to avoid interactions, altogether. Naturally, the emotional effects of isolation can be a tremendous burden.

What Can Be Done?

If you are one of the many people with a missing tooth or several missing teeth, you should know that you do not have to experience the emotional toll of the situation any longer. You can get a replacement, which is referred to as “full arch replacement” in Wichita.

There have been many advancements and innovations in the dental industry that now allow patients to get their realistic-looking, beautiful tooth replacements.

Not only will these replacements help to provide a boost to your confidence levels, it will provide you with a beautiful smile and an amazing boost to your health!

If you would like to learn more about this, contact us today at: 316-683-2525