What It’s Like to Live Without Teeth or Dentures: A Dentist’s Perspective
As a dentist, I often encounter patients who have lost some or all of their natural teeth, either due to decay, injury, or other health conditions. While advancements in modern dentistry mean that dentures, implants, and other restorative options are readily available, there are still individuals who live without teeth or any form of replacement. The impact of such a decision is profound, affecting not just oral health but overall quality of life. The Physical Challenges Living without teeth or dentures can significantly alter how an individual eats, speaks, and smiles. Chewing becomes a major challenge, often restricting dietary options to soft, easy-to-swallow foods. Unfortunately, this can lead to nutritional deficiencies, as many hard-to-chew but nutrient-rich foods—like raw vegetables, fruits,