When your gnashers become infected and if they are left untreated it can lead to diabetes, stroke, autoimmune disorders, erectile dysfunction, and coronary disease. In some cases the teeth can be neglected to the point they become so worn down, damaged and diseased they will need to be permanently removed and replaced; this is called terminal dentition.
Common causes of terminal dentition include but are not limited to worn teeth, drug abuse, acid reflux disease, recurrent cavities, dry mouth, extensive failing dental work, and periodontal disease. It is not uncommon for a person not to even be aware that they have terminal dentition as it does not always hurt and nor does excessive wear. Some of the signs of terminal dentition include losing teeth, bead breath, chewing hurts, gums look infected, teeth going bad, and being embarrassed to smile due to state of teeth.
Terminal dentition may seem to be a bother, but treating the condition, removing and replacing the diseased teeth can help to improve your health. For starters your will be able to chew your food properly and enjoy eating the foods you may be having trouble with, and you will regain your overall health which will add to the reasons to start smiling again.
You will need to make an appointment to talk with a dentist to discuss your options, and you may have more options than you thought, depending on the condition of your teeth. The traditional option is removable dentures, other options include implant retained dentures which can be fixed or removable.
If you have deteriorating or missing teeth, or have been struggling with dental issues, especially for a long time, it may be time to have a discussion with a dentist who can help make a plan for you. Most people really don’t want to have no teeth, but the dentist’s office should be able to schedule treatment with replacements the same day your diseased teeth are extracted.
Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene leads to bacteria in the blood which causes inflammation in the body; inflammation increases the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Perhaps it is time to have those teeth looked at now, before it becomes too late.
