Edentulism, or tooth loss, is an issue that affects many people around the world. Whether it is caused by age, oral diseases, or trauma, this condition can impact not only oral health but also self-esteem and overall quality of life. Fortunately, modern advances now offer effective and accessible dental care to restore a healthy and functional dentition. Discover how to understand and treat edentulism with innovative techniques and treatments.
What is edentulism?
Edentulism refers to the partial or complete loss of teeth, which can result from various causes such as dental caries (the primary cause of tooth loss), periodontal diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis that affect the supporting tissues of the teeth, trauma from accidents leading to tooth avulsion, and aging, where bone loss and gum problems become more frequent. Whether partial or complete, edentulism can have significant consequences on oral health, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.
What are the impacts of edentulism?
Tooth loss can lead to several consequences: in terms of oral health, adjacent teeth to the edentulous area may shift, causing alignment or chewing problems. Aesthetically, the absence of teeth, especially in visible areas, affects appearance and self-confidence. In terms of general health, poor chewing can cause digestive issues. Finally, the lack of stimulation from the tooth roots can lead to jawbone resorption.
What are the modern solutions for treating edentulism?
Advances in dentistry now provide solutions tailored to each situation:
All-on-6: A Solution for Complete Jaw Restoration
The All-on-6 treatment involves placing six dental implants to support a fixed prosthesis, ideal for patients who have lost all their teeth on one arch. This method is effective and allows for complete jaw rehabilitation in a single procedure.
All-on-4: A Quick Alternative for Dental Restoration
The All-on-4 treatment is a faster alternative to All-on-6, requiring only four implants to support a full prosthesis. It is particularly suitable for patients with limited bone in the jaw, reducing the need for additional interventions.
Dental implants offer a fixed and durable solution to replace missing teeth and solve the issue of edentulism. They involve placing a titanium screw into the jawbone, which serves as support for a crown or bridge.
Advantages:
Aesthetic results that resemble natural teeth.
Reduced bone resorption.
Long-lasting and comfortable.
Dental Bridges
A bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth. It is anchored to adjacent, previously prepared teeth. While effective, this solution often requires the shaping of neighboring teeth.
Why Choose Portugal for Your Dental Care?
Portugal is a top destination for dental care thanks to its many advantages:
Dentist Expertise: Portuguese clinics employ highly qualified professionals, often trained in internationally recognized institutions.
Competitive Prices: Dental treatments in Portugal are often 50% cheaper than in Western Europe, without compromising on quality.
Advanced Technologies: Portuguese clinics use modern equipment, including CAD/CAM technologies and high-quality implants.
Accessibility: With frequent and affordable flights, Portugal is easily accessible from most major European cities.
Cultural Experience: In addition to top-quality dental care, patients can enjoy a pleasant stay in a country known for its heritage, gastronomy, and beautiful landscapes.
How to erevent edentulism?
To maintain good oral health, it is essential to adopt a rigorous hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, using dental floss, and using mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection of potential problems. A balanced diet, limiting sugar consumption, also reduces the risk of cavities. Finally, to ensure the longevity of dental prostheses and implants, it is crucial to undergo regular check-ups.
Edentulism is no longer a fatality thanks to modern dental solutions. From removable dentures to dental implants, every patient can find an option that suits their needs and budget. Timely and appropriate care allows you to regain a functional and aesthetic smile, thus improving overall quality of life.
