Tooth Loss Affects Digestive Disorders
Ξ December 17th, 2008 | → Comments Off | ∇ Uncategorized |
Tooth loss is the result of an advanced state of periodontal disease, in which the gums become so infected they cannot hold the teeth any longer.
When teeth fall out, it is more difficult to eat, and people without teeth–even those who wear dentures–are the most vulnerable to digestive and other related problems.
Research indicates that changes in food preferences and subsequent nutrient deficiencies are associated with tooth loss. Even those with dentures do not always obtain the necessary nutrients. One study of denture-wearers found that their chewing efficiency was about one-sixth that of a person with natural teeth.
Poor chewing has been associated with a decrease in vitamin A and fiber intake and an increase in cholesterol, saturated fat and calories, ingredients that increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. This study concluded that most of the patients with dentures showed a low chewing performance classification. They also took more medication for gastrointestinal disorders than those with a higher chewing performance.
Denture wearers are not the only people at risk for poor digestion. A person with a poor bite, also known as malocclusion, is at risk for digestive problems. Malocclusion can influence an individual’s food choice and ability to chew food properly. The lack of a wide variety of food in a diet can result in poor nutrition.
Cavities can also lead to digestive problems. If a person is in pain because of a cavity, then proper chewing may not be possible. Proper chewing is essential for food to be broken down enough for good digestion. The right amount of chewing also allows for the nutrients of food to be maximized for absorption. It also allows for a more efficient digestion process.
One way to prevent this escalation of problems is to have your teeth cleaned and examined regularly. During a routine visit, a dentist can also determine if periodontal, or gum, disease had developed. Periodontal disease can cause pain and loose teeth and eventually lead to the loss of teeth if not treated. The onset of periodontal disease can lead to poor chewing habits and digestion. A dentist will recommend periodontal therapy to eliminate any infections in the gums, which will help you keep your teeth for life. This, in turn, will help you eat better, look better, feel better, and live longer.
Copyright 2008Tooth loss is the result of an advanced state of periodontal disease, in which the gums become so infected they cannot hold the teeth any longer.
When teeth fall out, it is more difficult to eat, and people without teeth–even those who wear dentures–are the most vulnerable to digestive and other related problems.
Research indicates that changes in food preferences and subsequent nutrient deficiencies are associated with tooth loss. Even those with dentures do not always obtain the necessary nutrients. One study of denture-wearers found that their chewing efficiency was about one-sixth that of a person with natural teeth.
Poor chewing has been associated with a decrease in vitamin A and fiber intake and an increase in cholesterol, saturated fat and calories, ingredients that increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. This study concluded that most of the patients with dentures showed a low chewing performance classification. They also took more medication for gastrointestinal disorders than those with a higher chewing performance.
Denture wearers are not the only people at risk for poor digestion. A person with a poor bite, also known as malocclusion, is at risk for digestive problems. Malocclusion can influence an individual’s food choice and ability to chew food properly. The lack of a wide variety of food in a diet can result in poor nutrition.
Cavities can also lead to digestive problems. If a person is in pain because of a cavity, then proper chewing may not be possible. Proper chewing is essential for food to be broken down enough for good digestion. The right amount of chewing also allows for the nutrients of food to be maximized for absorption. It also allows for a more efficient digestion process.
One way to prevent this escalation of problems is to have your teeth cleaned and examined regularly. During a routine visit, a dentist can also determine if periodontal, or gum, disease had developed. Periodontal disease can cause pain and loose teeth and eventually lead to the loss of teeth if not treated. The onset of periodontal disease can lead to poor chewing habits and digestion. A dentist will recommend periodontal therapy to eliminate any infections in the gums, which will help you keep your teeth for life. This, in turn, will help you eat better, look better, feel better, and live longer.
Copyright 2008
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