825 S Waukegan Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045

tooth loss

The Real Cost of Tooth Loss

LAKE FOREST AND LAKE BLUFF IL

According to the American Dental Association, people in the U.S. spent a whopping $162 billion on dental care in 2021 (that’s up 11% from 2020). Taking care of your oral health from the get-go can help you significantly reduce your personal dental costs. However, if your dental care is neglected, it can cause you discomfort and, eventually, tooth loss. If you live with permanent tooth loss, this can cost you much more than just your money. Read on to learn more about this topic from your Lake Forest family dentists.

Tooth loss could keep you unemployed

Employers take many things into account when going through the hiring process, but your appearance is one of the factors in the process. Responding managers in one survey indicated they found interviewees who smiled to be more likable and even more competent.  Tooth loss can also affect your speech, another obstacle during a job interview.

High unemployment rates have also been linked to populations in which a high percentage of adults are missing six or more teeth. Many people with significant tooth loss simply don’t get out and apply for jobs because they are ashamed or don’t feel good about their appearance due to the state of their oral health. If you’re having trouble building up the gusto to seek out employment, restoring your smile in Lincolnshire could change that.

Tooth loss ruins your confidence

Losing teeth can destroy your self-image. Tooth loss has been linked to anxiety and depression, while smiling and laughing actually boosts these endorphins. A smile is often the first thing you notice about someone new, and it’s been proven that people are more drawn to those they see as nice and happy. In other words, a beautiful smile will take someone’s first impression of you to the next level. If you’re missing one or more teeth and shy away from showing your pearly whites, it’s time to get your confidence back. Thankfully, we are fortunate to live in a time where restorative dentistry is available to replace missing teeth in Lake Bluff.

Tooth loss can affect other areas of your health

Gum disease is one of the most common causes for tooth loss. Smoking or poor nutrition also can raise your risk of losing teeth. You also may be at heightened risk if you suffer from certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension. Unfortunately, the link between these problems flows the other way as well. Living with tooth loss makes you more susceptible to gum disease, as well as other health complications such as stroke, hypertension, heart disease, dementia and even certain types of cancer. Addressing the state of your oral health with a dentist and taking action against any issues can help you avoid deterioration in other areas of your overall health.

Restorative dentistry in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff and Lincolnshire, Illinois

Losing a tooth can affect so much in your life, from your wallet to your overall health. Don’t live with these limitations. At Lake Forest Smiles, our team can restore your smile, your chewing ability and your confidence. Visit us online or call us at (847) 234-4800 to book an appointment today.

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