Dental implants in Springfield are the most effective way to replace missing teeth and create an attractive smile. However, there is evidence that receiving dental implants can actually have a significant impact on your total wellness. With that in mind, can rebuilding your smile actually add years to your life? Here’s what a local dentist has to say about it!
The Connection Between Tooth Loss and Poor Health
Recent studies show that by the age of 65, people who have lost 5 or more teeth are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. To make matters worse, each condition has been linked to decreased life expectancy. There is also evidence that having a full set of teeth is related to the quality of life a person maintains.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, people who practice excellent dental care and maintain regular dental visits are more likely to live longer. In fact, one study concludes that people with a full set of teeth when they are 74 years old are more likely to reach the age of 100.
Dental Implants to Boost Your Total Wellness
A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. It is unlike any other form of tooth replacement in that it works beneath the gum line. One of the major perks of receiving an implant is that it allows you to eat a variety of healthy foods. By being careful about what you consume, you can look forward to a longer and more productive life. This brings to mind the saying of the father of Western medicine, Hippocrates, “Let your food be your medicine, and your medicine be your food.”
Additionally, dental implants allow you to practice better dental hygiene, which is essential to your oral and overall health. To help out, there are toothbrushes and flossers designed specifically for cleaning your implants.
Through disciplined effort, you can better avoid these life-threatening health problems:
- Gum disease
- Heart disease
- Lung infections
- Type 2 diabetes
- Alzheimer’s disease
Emotional Harmony Related to Dental Implant Placement
The condition of your emotions can also play a crucial role in improving and extending your life. Happier people tend to live longer, which is why the production of endorphins, dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin are so important. These “happy hormones” help to prevent acidity and inflammation that could eventually wear down the immune system.
Having a nice smile and the ability to eat a wide array of foods provides a natural boost to your confidence. This can go a long way toward living a longer, fuller and richer life. To experience the many other health benefits of dental implants, reach out to a local dentist to schedule an initial visit!
About the Author
Dr. Aliana Henkin earned her dental degree from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, where dental implantation was one of her particular areas of interest. To further expand her knowledge, she has taken several hours of continuing education with a focus on dental implantology. Additionally, Dr. Henkin is a Fellow of the International Dental Implant Association. She helps patients live longer and more enjoyably by placing dental implants at Skyline Dental, and she can be reached for more information through her website.