The emotional effects of tooth loss in a group of partially dentate people: a quantitative study.

Abstract

This study investigated the reactions to tooth loss in a partially dentate group of 100 people using a questionnaire-based method. Partially dentate people who experienced difficulties in accepting their tooth loss were more likely to feel less confident, restrict food choice, enjoy food less, avoid laughing in public and avoid forming close relationships than those people who had no difficulties accepting tooth loss. Also, they were more likely to feel that they had not been adequately prepared for the effects that tooth loss had on their confidence, daily living activities and appearance.