Edentulism: What It Is, Causes, and Treatments

We all experience losing baby teeth during childhood. However, edentulism is a dental condition where you may have missing teeth or no teeth at all. While edentulism is often associated with old age, it can affect people of all ages, impairing their ability to eat, speak, and smile. 

At Locust Family Dentistry, we offer the best dental treatments for edentulism in Locust, NC, to keep your teeth intact and protect your smile. It is important that you understand what edentulism entails in order to manage this condition effectively.

Our dentists in Locust, Dr. Maxhuni and Dr. Zeitouni, DDS, FAGD, FICOI, prioritize your oral health and ensure that you receive effective edentulism treatments to improve your oral health so you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.

What Is Edentulism?

Edentulism, otherwise known as tooth loss, is a dental condition characterized by the absence of teeth in the mouth. There are two main types of edentulism: partial and complete. Partial edentulism occurs when a person is missing some of their teeth, while complete edentulism occurs when a person is missing all of their teeth.

What Causes Edentulism?

Understanding the causes of edentulism is important in preventing this dental issue. They may include:

• Poor oral hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly can lead to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can cause gum disease and, eventually, tooth loss. 
• Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues that support the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.

Common Dental Treatments for Edentulism

There are several dental treatments available to help restore function and aesthetics for those suffering from edentulism. They include:

• Dentures: Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that are made to fit a person’s mouth and replace missing teeth.

Dental implants: Implants are small screws that are placed in the jawbone to serve as tooth roots. Once fused with the jawbone, dental crowns are attached to them to create natural-looking teeth.