Gradual bone loss in the lower jaw

of dental roots, which normally transmit masticatory forces to bone cells, the lower jaw resorbs up to 1 mm a year in a continuous and unavoidable way.
 

As the tissue-bearing foundation recedes because of bone and gum shrinkage over the years, there is a gradual loss of prostheses stability up to 85%. This may bring about embarrassing situations.
 

For many denture wearers, migraines, headaches, earaches and neck pain caused by unstable dentures are a common occurence.
 

Denture wearers often supplement inadequate chewing with premature swallowing. This leads to an array of gastrointestinal difficulties including bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, irritable bowel and constipation. All of these disorders result from an overworked digestive system caused by inadequately chewed food.

Pain and ulcerations caused by unstable dentures ruin the pleasure of thorough chewing.

As chewing efficiency decreases, the denture wearer may be prevented from eating sufficient amounts of fresh fruit, raw vegetables, nuts and meat. Inadequate chewing also limits the absorption of dietary fibres, minerals, vitamins and proteins required for good health.

When chewing is difficult, there is a tendency to eat softer foods. These softer foods are more processed, less nutritious and higher in fat content. This may lead to an increase in body fat and blood cholesterol ratios.

The price of chronic nutritional deficiencies includes increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. A Japanese study conducted in 2001 supports the finding that there is a deterioration of general health and premature death by six years in denture wearers.

Up to 80% gradual bone loss in the jaws

Pronounced wrinkles on the forehead

Premature aging and facial cave-in

Upward protrusion of the chin

Collapsed lips

Diminished quality of life

Loss of self-esteem

Social isolation

Some people experience no health problems, facial changes or other inconveniences associated with tooth loss.

Problems described above could be caused by conditions other than tooth loss, bone resorption and unstable dentures.

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This document is based on the broad conclusions of two surveys conducted between 1996 and 2002 by McGill University on the overall health and chewing abilities of 160 toothless patients. Half of the subjects wore conventional dentures, while the other half were equipped with a prosthesis secured in place with implants in the lower jaw. The surveys were conducted by the McGill University Faculty of Dentistry and presented during a seminar of 15 international speakers in Montreal on May 24 and 25, 2002. Reviews of each of the 15 presentations will be published in book format by Quintessence Books in 2003. In the interim, the 15 speakers have arrived at a consensus, accessible on the McGill University Website, www.mcgill.ca. A summary of it may be found below.

Consensus reached and standard proposed by McGill University: An implant-supported prosthesis must replace the conventional lower denture¹!

Since May 2002, the new standard advocates use of a prosthesis stabilized by at least two implants as an efficient replacement of all lower teeth, rather than the conventional lower denture. A prosthesis secured by implants has become the new standard because traditional dentures fitted to the mandible often do not re-establish a sufficient level of mastication to ensure good health.

Food for Thought

Your denturist is a health professional who can assist you in the decision-making process that will have a direct impact on your health and the appearance of your face for years to come.

Although this document clearly illustrates the dire consequences of tooth loss and long-term use of lower dentures on health and facial appearance, discussion with your denturist² is truly the best approach for a wise decision³.

Denture wearers would enjoy better health and be happier if they chose implant-supported lower prostheses rather than conventional lower dentures.

1- Articles publicly summarizing this new standard were published on June 10th, 2002 in many major newspapers.
2- Your denturist is responsible for the preparation, fitting and adjustment of prostheses stabilized by implants. The dentist* is responsible for implant placement.
3- Implant insertion entails risks that will be clearly explained to you during your consultation with a Dental Implant Society denturist and a dentist*. Although this rarely happens, you may be diagnosed as an unsuitable candidate for dental implants.
WARNING: The information presented in this document does not represent a unanimous opinion on the part of denturists and dentists* working for Dental Implant Society. Additional information should be obtained from a trusted professional and through additional documentation, since opinions differ amongst both authors and professionals.