Eating without teeth or dentures
Attempting to eat without dentures or remaining natural teeth is not only a challenge but can come with a host of other issues.
Poor Digestion
As we have mentioned before, digestion starts in the mouth. Inadequate chewing interferes with this process and can lead to further digestion/ nutritional deficiencies if missing teeth are not replaced. Undigested food can become a breeding ground for bacteria, adding to bacterial growth, flatulence and other symptoms of indigestion.
Further bone deterioration/ Gum infections
Attempting to “chew” your food with just your gums can be abrasive and potentially cause damage to your gum tissue. Putting this kind of stress on your gums in this manner can lead to sores and infections.
Reduced Saliva and Inadequate enzyme production
Chewing with the absence of teeth or dentures may disrupt the production of essential enzymes necessary for efficient food breakdown. Normal chewing triggers taste receptors to transmit signals to the lower digestive system, prompting the release of the enzymes needed for digestion. When chewing is impaired, this signalling process is disturbed, leading to insufficient enzyme release and compromised food breakdown. Effective chewing stimulates the salivary glands, but the absence of teeth impedes this crucial stage in the digestion process.
Risks to any remaining teeth
Each tooth serves a unique function in the process of eating. While molars and premolars work to grind food into smaller particles, incisors and canines assist in cutting and tearing food into smaller pieces.
However, when teeth are lost, it disrupts the effectiveness of your remaining teeth, which can interfere with your eating habits. This can also result in any remaining teeth shifting into the vacant spots. Consequently, these alterations can hinder the ability of your teeth to properly cut, slice, or grind food, affecting your overall eating experience.
Social and Psychological Impact
Difficulty eating could affect your quality of life and self-esteem, leading to social isolation and decreased enjoyment of meals. Due to feelings of embarrassment or shame, further impacting your mental health and overall sense of well-being.
Here’s what you can do:
1) Schedule an assessment with a Denturist here at Minuk & Koster Denture Clinic.
Your assessment includes an oral exam, an assessment of current dentures (if applicable), comprehensive treatment plan options and an estimate. Our support staff will also assist with any dental insurance you may or may not have.
2) Have complete and or partial dentures made. This is a removable solution that will allow you to eat and socialize with confidence.
3) Ask about dentures over implants (removable or fixed) is another treatment option that adds increased fit, security (no slippage), and increased bite force.
Call our office today at 204-589-6329. We are here to help you on your denture journey, every step of the way!
Minuk & Koster Digital Denture Clinic is Canada’s largest Denture Clinic located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With over 100,000+ dentures created since 1977, our team is confident that we can help you love your smile again. Minuk & Koster has denture solutions for all budgets and are here to help you understand the cost of dentures and the process of getting new dentures. Our team of Denturists and expert staff are here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. Check out our Smile Stories and learn more about the Minuk & Koster difference by reviewing our website or calling us at 204.589.6329. Book your Free Consultation Today!
