About Missing Teeth

As seen in the image above, the considerable reduction of bone height in the mandible results in a loss of function. After several adjustments, removable dentures replace more bone and soft tissue than teeth over time. Additionally, ill-fitting dentures accelerate bone loss rather than preserve it.

When we have teeth the normal biting force in the molar region is 150-250psi. This can increase to 1000psi when we grind or clench our teeth.

The maximum biting force with no teeth is less than 50psi!

And after 15 years of denture wearing, the bite force is reduced to 6 psi!

Due to lower biting power and unstable dentures, tooth loss also diminishes masticatory efficiency.

90% of food normally eaten with natural teeth may pass through a No. 12 mesh sieve.

This is lowered to 58% over a 15-year period for patients with total dentures.

29% of denture wearers can only consume mushy or mashed foods, 50% avoid various foods, and 17% report they eat more effectively without dentures. As a result, there is a decreased consumption of high-fiber meals, which might lead to digestive issues. The coarser meals may interfere with digestion and nutrition absorption.

A study of 367 denture wearers (158 men and 209 women) found that 47% exhibited a low masticatory performance (Misch LS, 1991). Lower intakes of fruits, vegetables, and vitamin A by women were noted in this group. These patients took significantly more medications (37%) compared with those with superior masticatory ability (20%), and 28% were taking medications for gastrointestinal disorders.

Psychologically, complete tooth loss also has a large impact. Many people feel their social and romantic life is significantly affected. 88% claim difficulty with speech, and 25% claim significant problems. There is dissatisfaction with appearance and low self -esteem.