Emotional Effects of Losing Your Teeth

Loss of teeth can happen at any age and emotionally wound a person, attacking self esteem, confidence and triggering depression. In addition to everything just mentioned, the person experiences added stress of increased risks for dementia, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. Losing teeth can severely diminish a person's quality of life. According to Dr. H. Asuman Kiyak of the Academy of General Dentistry, "The major impact of tooth loss is on the appearance and social relations component of quality of life, because people cannot change their appearance with missing teeth."

Social Interactions

• After losing teeth, people young and old may experience self-image problems. Many studies show that people limit or even avoid social contact because of dental problems. One survey done in North York, Ontario showed that seven percent of persons 18 and older interviewed had limited conversations due to embarrassment and 15% avoided laughing or smiling because of their teeth. In our society, self image is important and losing teeth can negatively effect the way a person lives his life.

Self-Esteem and Confidence

• Losing teeth is a painful experience that can severely diminish a person's view of themselves. Researchers in the United Kingdom showed that tooth loss is a major life event that can be a more difficult adjustment than retirement. Without teeth, the structure of the face is eventually altered. Lines around the mouth deepen and the face may have a sallow appearance. This effect is devastating on a person's sense of self and how they view themselves aesthetically.

Depression

• 70% of British people surveyed said that the state of their teeth directly affects their happiness. Poor self-image and confidence causes sufferers of tooth loss to avoid social contact and activities. People begin to feel isolated and withdraw from society. During social situations, people may feel awkward eating, drinking, and smiling. Depression is often triggered by massive adjustments like losing teeth, and ongoing psychological treatment may be helpful to overcoming the symptoms.

Easing the Pain

• There are many treatments for losing teeth. Dental implants, dentures, whitening systems and porcelain veneers are used to fix missing or unsightly teeth. Dental work can be expensive, however, and some cannot afford to fix their teeth. Depression, anxiety and social withdrawal is treatable and can be helped with therapy, relaxation techniques and in some cases, anti-depressants. Any of the above symptoms should be addressed with a doctor or therapist to improve quality of life.