Teeth are not only essential for chewing food but also play a crucial role in maintaining facial structure. Losing one or more teeth can significantly alter a person's facial appearance, especially if left untreated for an extended period. This is because teeth and jawbones act as support for facial tissues.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area gradually shrinks due to the lack of stimulation from chewing, which normally encourages bone growth. This process, known as bone resorption, can make the face appear older. The area around the mouth and cheeks may become sunken, lips may droop, and facial contours may lose their firmness. This effect is often referred to as “premature facial aging,”even in younger individuals.
Additionally, missing teeth can affect the balance of facial muscles. The remaining teeth may shift to fill the empty space, leading to misalignment of the teeth and jaw. This imbalance can cause jaw tension, affect speech patterns, and, in some cases, lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
It is important to understand that the impact of tooth loss is not just cosmetic but also functional. Missing teeth can reduce the ability to chew food properly, which in turn affects digestive health. Therefore, replacing lost teeth through procedures such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures is a crucial step.
Research conducted by drg. M. Th. Esti Tjahjanti, M.Kes., Sp.Pros.(K), and team has shown that using dentures can be an effective rehabilitation solution to counteract facial muscle changes due to tooth loss. Additionally, studies involving drg. Erwan Sugiatno, MS, Sp.Pros(K), Ph.D., emphasize the importance of using denture adhesives to enhance comfort for users. With advancements in modern dentistry, solutions such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures now offer more comfortable, aesthetic, and long-lasting options.
With continuous developments in dental technology, replacing missing teeth has become more convenient and durable. Restoring lost teeth not only brings back a beautiful smile but also helps maintain facial structure and prevents unwanted changes in appearance. Therefore, maintaining oral health and addressing tooth loss promptly are essential steps in supporting facial health and overall quality of life.
Efforts to address tooth loss align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Enhancing quality of life through proper dental care; SDG 10: Reduced Inequality – Ensuring affordable denture solutions for all social groupsp; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Supporting the development of sustainable dental materials that are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
References
drg. M. Th. Esti Tjahjanti, M.Kes., Sp.Pros.(K), drg. Erwan Sugiatno, MS, Sp.Pros(K), Ph.D., Prof. Dr. drg. Haryo Mustiko Dipoyono, MS, Sp.Pros (K), The Use of Dentures for Rehabilitation of Facial Muscle Changes Due to Tooth Loss, https://jurnal.ugm.ac.id/mkgk/article/download/46389/35149
drg. Erwan Sugiatno, MS, Sp.Pros(K), Ph.D., Prof. Dr. drg. Haryo Mustiko Dipoyono, MS, Sp.Pros (K), The Effect of Using Complete Denture Adhesives on Gender Frequency at RSGM Prof. Soedomo FKG UGM Yogyakarta, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/home/detail_pencarian_downloadfiles/757397
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
