The average life expectancy in the U.S. is around 78 years. Of course, millions of individuals live well into their 80s or even their 90s — many even reach 100! What can you do to extend your life? In addition to taking good care of your overall health, you should also pay attention to your oral health. This blog post discusses the link between tooth loss and life expectancy. It also talks about how dental implants might be able to help you enjoy a longer life.
Tooth Loss and Shortened Life Expectancy
There are a few sobering facts that highlight how tooth loss may affect life expectancy:
- People over the age of 65 who have lost five or more teeth are at a heightened risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Tooth loss is associated with an increased risk of diabetes and osteoporosis, both of which can affect quality of life and longevity.
- People who have a complete set of teeth at age 74 are more likely to reach 100 years of age than those who have lost some teeth.
Why is tooth loss connected to longevity? One possible explanation is gum disease, which is a leading cause of missing teeth. When bacteria invade the gums, they can get into the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart problems and other serious medical conditions.
Nutrition may also play a role. Individuals with extensive tooth loss may be limited in what foods they can comfortably consume. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to many different illnesses.
How Dental Implants Can Help
If you have already lost some teeth, the above information might seem disheartening, but there is reason to be optimistic! Today, most people with missing teeth are candidates for dental implants. Implants rebuild teeth from the roots up, making them the best tooth replacement that modern dentistry has to offer. They might be able to help you live longer in a few different ways:
- An expanded diet. Dental implants can handle virtually any food, including nutritious items like raw veggies and fresh fruits.
- Improved emotional health. A full and confident smile may make you feel better about your daily life, which can have great benefits for your overall wellness.
- Recovery from gum disease. Even people who had serious gum disease in the past may be candidates for dental implants. Taking good care of your implants can go a long way toward preventing gum disease from recurring.
Life is beautiful, and it should be savored! A healthy smile may give you more time to enjoy all that this world has to offer.
Meet the Practice
Dr. James Kramer has more than 30 years of experience as a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He is also a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is proud to offer start-to-finish dental implant services in our conveniently located Selbyville office. To learn more about how he and our team could help you enjoy improved oral and overall health, contact us at 302-436-5133.