Abstract
The functions of natural teeth are to enable mastication whilst also helping to form speech and provide aesthetics. Whilst the aesthetic role of teeth is becoming more important and financially rewarding for clinicians, the role of teeth in mastication is much more fundamental. Historically, incisors were developed for incising foods into a manageable bolus and molars developed to comminute the bolus to facilitate ingestion. Unfortunately, teeth can be lost, mainly due to caries, periodontal disease or trauma during a patient's lifetime whilst others are congenitally missing. This chapter examines the consequences of natural tooth loss on oral function, including mastication, and nutritional choices. It also describes the impact of replacing missing teeth with various prosthodontic treatments on mastication and nutritional status.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Nutrition and oral health |
Editors | Gerry McKenna |
Publisher | Springer Cham |
Pages | 63-71 |
Number of pages | 9 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9783030805265 |
ISBN (Print) | 9783030805258, 9783030805289 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 25 Sept 2021 |
Keywords
- Edentate
- Implants
- Partially dentate
- Removable prosthodontics
- Shortened dental arch
- Tooth loss
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Dentistry
- General Medicine