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A new study involving 1,000 patients has revealed that people over 70 with less than 20 teeth are at a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal frailty. The study found that people with more than 20 teeth were significantly less likely to be frail, as they can consumer a far larger amounts of nutrients compared to those with less than 20. The study showed that one in five (20%) people examined had no teeth, more than half (54%) had gum disease, nearly a third (29%) suffered from dry mouth and around one in ten (11%) had trouble eating. This is due to their ability to chew and consume certain nutritional foods. However, those with less than 20 teeth but who used implants, Click-tite dentures or Teeth in a Day were scored as their dental treatment had actually helped lower the risk of frailty, due to their ability to chew and consume nutritional foods.

The study included interviews on nutritional intake as well as clinical examinations such as oral health assessments and handgrip tests. The study highlighted the significant relationship between our oral health and overall health, along with the importance of maintaining proper oral care throughout our lives.

"We often see first-hand the difficulties that poorer oral health in the elderly can have, including making it harder to eat, swallow, speak, get adequate nutrition, and even smile. Elderly people who are suffering with poor oral health could also be in pain and discomfort and experience problems their mouth and jaw." said Dr. Nigel Carter, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation. "Sensory impairments such as eye sight and hearing, poor physical function and a patient's wider history of disease are often what is taken into consideration when identifying frailty, and oral health is often ignored when assessing the care of older people. Dental examinations and the health of a person's mouth could become highly useful indicators of frailty and be added to general health screening assessments in older people. 

The  team behind the study believe that the lack of nutrients being taken on board by denture wearers could be attributed to their inability to eat specific foods. Although dentures improve masticatory function, their bite force is much weaker than that of natural teeth, meaning users may avoid certain foods. So, just what are the safer and healthier options available to you?

Dental Implants

Dental implants are increasingly popular among patients, as they allow you the freedom to say goodbye to sticky denture adhesives and pastes forever. Dental implants allow you to taste foods properly for the first time in years, feel younger, restore confidence and prevent facial collapse or frailty. They really are a revolution in modern dentistry. You can even brush your teeth in your mouth instead of in your hands, as they look, feel and act just like natural teeth. Dental implants have many advantages and they are an investment in your future. Nobody wants to live with missing teeth and an uncomfortable denture that may become loose and cause discomfort.

Without a tooth root the jawbone will begin to reduce and cause the face to collapse. This happens over time and can noticeably age a person. Dental implants, when maintained properly, dental implants can encourage the growth of jaw bone. We want to restore our patient’s confident smiles and allow them to live their lives in comfort. It’s a fantastic time to be in dentistry and a great time to be changing lives.

Click-tite Dentures

Exclusive to Seapoint Clinic come Click-tite Dentures, the ideal solution for anyone looking to get rid of their old, worn out dentures. On average, your custom made Click-tite denture is anchored into place using a series of dental implants, ensuring your dentures remaining secure in your mouth as well as being easily removed for cleaning. We can make your final denture in as little as two months and there's no need to worry, at no stage throughout your treatment will you be left without teeth. Do you have some teeth left which might require extraction? Considering a denture? Contact us today and find out how Click-tite dentures can give you the freedom to laugh, eat and talk in comfort.

Teeth in a Day

Teeth in a Day means exactly that, new teeth in just one day! When you arrive, any problem teeth are removed and we carefully place your specialised dental implants. As we feature our very own in-house dental laboratory, we can make your personalised new teeth while you relax. Later that afternoon, your new teeth are fitted securely in place, meaning you can go home the same evening and even enjoy a hearty dinner! Once you arrive at Seapoint Clinic, our friendly team will make sure you are relaxed and worry-free for the duration of your time with us. We use an effective sedative to ensure you are relaxed and so you won’t feel any discomfort. The implants are gently placed and this unique procedure allows us carry out the entire process in one day, meaning less down-time and you.

Regular Visits to your Dentist

By simply following an oral care routine of brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash can help ensure your teeth last a lifetime. It's also important to reduce the amount of sugar we consume and visit your dentist regularly, as by doing so they can spot any potential issues.